Syphilis is a sexually-transmitted infectious disease that starts as a painless sore, but can lead to serious heart, brain and nervous system problems. Syphilis is a widespread disease that is prevalent in sexually active adults in their 20s. Early treatment within the first eight weeks after infection is necessary to prevent serious organ damage.
Penicillin
A single injection of penicillin can kill the organism that causes syphilis and prevent the disease from progressing. Penicillin damages the bacteria that causes syphilis. Although a single dose is effective, those who have had syphilis for more than one year may require additional doses. Furthermore, penicillin is the only recommended treatment for pregnant women with syphilis. The newborn must also receive a penicillin injection to make sure the disease has not spread. Patients may experience side effects that include fever, chills, nausea, achy pains and headaches after receiving a penicillin injection. This is termed a Jarish-Herxheimer reaction; although concerning, symptoms only last a few days.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that slows the grow of the bacteria that causes syphilis. Doxycycline can be used in patients who have an allergy to penicillin. Serious side effects of doxycycline include fever, headaches, yellowing of the skin, severe blistering, stomach pain or weakness. Doxycycline must be taken twice a day for two weeks. Patients must complete the entire regimen to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant syphilis.
Azithromycin
Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body. This medication can be used in place of penicillin in those who may have a penicillin allergy. The one-time dose of azithromycin makes it easy for patients to take, because they do not have to worry about taking multiple doses a day for several weeks. Side effects of azithromycin include diarrhea that is watery or bloody, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, nausea, stomach pain, fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, sore throat, headache or blistering.
