Quick Answer
Syphilis is cured with antibiotics, most commonly benzathine penicillin G. The stage of infection determines the dose and duration. Early stages require one shot; later stages may need three. Alternative oral antibiotics exist for those allergic to penicillin.
- Penicillin G is the only recommended treatment for pregnant people with syphilis.
- Doxycycline or tetracycline can be used for non-pregnant adults with penicillin allergy.
- Treatment failure is checked by retesting blood 6 and 12 months after therapy.
- Latent syphilis may require three weekly penicillin injections.
- Retesting is also recommended for partners to prevent reinfection.
- All sexual partners in the past 3 to 12 months should be evaluated.
The Landscape
Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and progresses through stages if untreated. The goal of treatment is to eradicate the bacteria completely, which is achievable with the right antibiotic. Because syphilis can mimic other conditions and goes through silent latent phases, knowing which drug and schedule fits your stage is critical. Treatment not only cures the individual but also stops transmission to others.
Treatment Windows by Infection
Bacterial infections clear with antibiotics measured in days: a single 500 mg intramuscular ceftriaxone dose for gonorrhea (doxycycline is added only if chlamydia has not been ruled out), seven days of doxycycline for chlamydia, penicillin injections for syphilis staged by duration. Viral infections play a longer game — suppressive antivirals for herpes, daily ART driving HIV to undetectable, and 8–12-week antiviral courses curing over 95% of hepatitis C cases.
Related Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- CDC — Sexually Transmitted Infections
- CDC STI Treatment Guidelines
- WHO — Sexually transmitted infections fact sheet
- MedlinePlus — Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.