Dramatic Rise in Syphilis Cases Contribute to Penicillin Shortage

Dramatic Rise in Syphilis Cases Contribute to Penicillin Shortage

Syphilis rates increased by nearly 80% between 2018 and 2022, and what’s making matters worse is the ongoing shortage of injectable penicillin, the go-to treatment for patients with syphilis. Public health agencies now are recommending providers ration the drug, according to Kaiser Health News. Pregnant patients should be prioritized first because penicillin is considered the safest treatment for the population. Doxycycline would be an appropriate drug for syphilis cases, but it’s discouraged for pregnant moms …

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Conquering the Fear of Penicillin Allergy: The Boogeyman of Urgent Care

Conquering the Fear of Penicillin Allergy: The Boogeyman of Urgent Care

I had time to see one more patient as my shift was winding down. “Wound check. That should be a quick one,” I said to myself. Famous last words. I soon learned that the young woman with the dog bite on her hand was returning for her fourth visit in as many days for the same issue. She sat fidgeting on the exam table and was visibly irritated when I walked in the room. “It’s …

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