Syphilis

5 drugs · 5 Prescription

STIs & Sexual Health

Penicillin and alternatives for syphilis treatment

Progresses in stages: an early painless sore is easy to miss, but the infection keeps spreading if untreated

Penicillin injection is the standard treatment; tell your doctor if you're allergic so an alternative can be used

When to see a doctor

Seek care if you notice any of the following

  • If you have a severe headache, confusion, or difficulty speaking, go to your nearest clinic or hospital immediately.
  • If you notice a rash that spreads quickly, especially to your palms, soles, or face, go to your nearest clinic or hospital soon.
  • If you have a fever over 38°C (100.4°F) that lasts for more than 3 days, go to your nearest clinic or hospital soon.
  • If you experience severe pain in your joints, muscles, or bones, go to your nearest clinic or hospital soon.
  • If you have a sore on your genitals, anus, or mouth that doesn't heal after 2 weeks of treatment with penicillin, go to your nearest clinic or hospital soon.

For guidance only: always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Antibiotic

Penicillin

4

Benzylpenicillin sodium

Prescription

Serious bacterial infections like pneumonia, meningitis (brain infection), septicaemia (blood infection), throat infections, wound infections, sexually transmitted infections like syphilis and gonorrhoea, tetanus, and skin infections

10 Nigerian brands

Phenoxymethylpenicillin

Prescription

Throat infections (tonsillitis, sore throat), ear infections, mouth and gum infections, mild chest infections, skin infections, prevention of rheumatic fever

5 Nigerian brands

Procaine Benzylpenicillin

Prescription

Syphilis, gonorrhea, chest infections (pneumonia), skin infections, sore throat from bacteria, wound infections, yaws

2 Nigerian brands

Procaine Benzylpenicillin; Benzylpenicillin Sodium

Prescription

Serious bacterial infections, pneumonia, sexually transmitted infections like syphilis and gonorrhoea, skin infections, wound infections, throat infections, ear infections, chest infections

19 Nigerian brands