Chlamydia is one of the more common sexually transmitted infections and can be treated by a course of antibiotics. We will explore here the best medications for it and underline the importance of medical supervision.
02 October 2024
3 min read
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Key Antibiotics for Chlamydia
Of the most commonly used antibiotics for chlamydia treatment, the greatest are azithromycin and doxycycline. Usual prescription for doxycycline includes two capsules daily for one week, and azithromycin is given as a single dose of two to four tablets.
Importance of Correct Antibiotic Usage
The proper antibiotic treatment for chlamydia is usually 100% effective in clearing it up, but this must be taken exactly according to the doctor's instructions. Taking antibiotics without the doctor's supervision may result in some future medical complications and even drug-resistant strains. Make sure you take the full dose and complete the entire course of antibiotics. First of all, confirm that you have the infection through testing before commencing antibiotic treatment. This you can do at a local GP, or at a hospital/clinic, or by using a rapid test kit.
Groups That Must Undergo Antibiotic Treatment
Antibiotics are highly needed by the following groups of persons, including:
Those persons whose result for chlamydia testing has turned out positive
Newborn babies whose mother had a positive test result for chlamydia
Sexual partners of all persons who have been reported to be suffering from chlamydia infection
Anyone experiencing symptoms of chlamydia and who had unprotected sex in the recent past
It is important to note that the consumption of antibiotics depends on the level of sickness. It is highly advisable to consult a doctor rather than self-prescription due to the potential risks associated with it, which also include resistance to the antibiotic or the acquisition of secondary infections.
Pregnancy and Antibiotics
Erythromycin and amoxicillin are administered to pregnant and lactating mothers instead due to the possible consequences for the fetus or the new child. The course of treatment is thoroughly contrived in order to avoid complications.
Possible side effects in pregnant/breastfeeding women:
Vaginal thrush
Diarrhea
Stomach ache
General discomfort
Azithromycin: A Versatile Antibiotic
Being a type of macrolide antibiotic, azithromycin does not only help treat chlamydia but also a wide range of bacterial infections. This medication exerts its functions by attaching itself to certain regions of bacterial ribosomes; this process prevents the eventual growth of the bacteria. As with any drug, strict adherence to medical advice will be necessary to ensure proper use and effectiveness of the medication.
Doxycycline: A Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic
Doxycycline belongs to the class of tetracyclines. It is used in treating a wide range of bacterial infections, including chlamydia. Its mechanism of action is similar to that of azithromycin because it binds to specific parts of bacterial ribosomes and consequently inhibits their growth.
It is generally taken orally on an empty stomach, about an hour before or two hours after meals, depending upon the doctor's prescription. Though this antibiotic is quite effective, it has several side effects, depending upon the body metabolism of a person. Some of the side effects that may be experienced are:
Headaches
Diarrhea
Skin sensitivity to sunlight
General discomfort
Sexual Activity After Taking Antibiotics
Having sex, especially unprotected sex, is not advisable during the treatment with antibiotics. You can restart sexual activity a day after the treatment with antibiotics.
Re-testing after Chlamydia Treatment
Follow-up testing after being treated is generally not required. However, it is highly advisable in case one failed to intake antibiotics correctly, the symptoms remain, or there was unprotected sex before the end of the treatment. Ongoing follow-ups keep you healthy and assure that your treatment works.
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