CDC has received reports that some STD programs are currently unable to procure enough penicillin G benzathine (Bicillin L-A®) – the first-line recommended treatment for syphilis – to treat syphilis cases in their jurisdictions. The manufacturer anticipates the issue will be resolved in the next two months. In the meantime, they are working closely with CDC and FDA to address urgent requests.

During this time, providers should:

• Continue to follow CDC’s treatment recommendations. Penicillin G benzathine (Bicillin L-A®) is the only recommended treatment for pregnant people infected or exposed to syphilis.
• Doxycycline 100mg PO BID for two weeks (for early syphilis) or for 4 weeks (for late latent or syphilis of unknown duration) is an alternative for the treatment of non-pregnant people with a penicillin allergy.
• Prioritize the use of Bicillin L-A® to treat pregnant people and babies with congenital syphilis.
• Notify DSTDP (std shortages@cdc.gov) of any shortage or low inventories of Bicillin L-A® in your facility so CDC can continue to monitor this situation.
• Report any shortages to the Pfizer Supply Continuity Team at 844-646-4398 (select 1 and then select 3).

If your practice is unable to obtain Bicillin-LA®:

• You can refer pregnant patients with syphilis to the County STD clinic (17^th Street Testing and Treatment Clinic) to receive their Bicillin L-A® injections.
• The clinic also has a limited supply of Bicillin-LA® which we can deliver to your practice to treat your pregnant patients who may have difficulty coming to our clinic in Santa Ana. To request a delivery of Bicillin-LA® please contact Colleen Brody (714) 834-7833 or Pristeen Hood (714) 834-8615. 

If you have any questions regarding syphilis treatment and the Bicillin L-A® shortage, feel free to contact Dr Ried, STD Controller, (714) 834-8598.

OCHCA STD Clinic (17th Street Testing and Treatment Clinic)

1725 West 17th Street, Santa Ana 92706

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 8am-4pm;

Tuesday 10am-4pm