Treatment for chlamydia is with antibiotics, such as azithromycin or doxycycline. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), doxycycline may be more effective. Individuals should discuss the options with a doctor.
Antibiotics are an effective therapy to cure chlamydia. A doctor has several options of antibiotics they can try and will provide a person with the best option for their needs.
This article reviews the treatment options a doctor may recommend for chlamydia.
Chlamydia is a bacterial STI. This means a person can contract it from someone during oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
Though anyone can get it, it is most common in sexually active people ages
Chlamydia does not usually cause any symptoms.
If a person does experience symptoms, they
- unusual vaginal discharge
- pain or burning when urinating
- discharge from penis
- testicular swelling
- pain in one or both testicles
- rectal bleeding, pain, or discharge
- itchy, red, and swollen eye or eyes
Learn moreLearn more about chlamydia.
Both the
Though both are effective, the CDC notes that doxycycline may be slightly more effective.
A 2015 study reported similar results, noting that people who took azithromycin had a 97% effectiveness rate in curing the infection while doxycycline had a 100% effectiveness rate.
A person should work with a doctor to determine the best treatment option. Some people may not be able to take the recommended medications and may need to take another type of antibiotic.
Doxycycline is a type of antibiotic often prescribed for chlamydia infections.
The CDC notes it effectively treats the infection at various sites, including the anus, penis, vagina, and mouth.
How to take it
Doxycycline is an orally administered medication.
A person typically takes it as
Side effects
Common side effects associated with doxycycline
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vaginal yeast infection
- vomiting
- increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
It can also cause less common but serious side effects, which can include:
- blood problems
- liver damage
- esophagus irritation
- life threatening allergic reactions
Cost
Though costs can vary by location and insurance coverage, the CDC notes that each 100 mg tablet costs about
Azithromycin is another type of antibiotic that the
How to take it
Azithromycin is an oral medication. It is typically prescribed as a single-dose,
Side effects
Though generally safe, azithromycin can cause side effects such as:
- diarrhea
- headache
- nausea and vomiting
- loss of appetite
- dizziness
- tiredness
The
Doctors should take care when prescribing azithromycin, assessing a person’s medical history before recommending it.
Cost
Though costs can vary, the average estimated cost of azithromycin is about
Amoxicillin may be a good option to treat chlamydia infection in pregnant people. A doctor may also prescribe it if the person has had allergic or other reactions to other mainline treatments for the infection.
Amoxicillin is a good alternative option for treatment during pregnancy if the person cannot take azithromycin.
However, some strands of chlamydia
How to take it
A person takes amoxicillin orally. The dosing is typically
Side effects
Amoxicillin is generally well tolerated. However, some people may develop side effects such as:
- vomiting
- nausea
- headache
- changes in taste
- diarrhea
Some people may have a potentially life threatening allergic reaction and let the prescribing doctor know if they have had any adverse reactions.
Cost
Amoxicillin costs can vary. Insurance, generic vs. brand name, and dosing can affect the price.
A person who has trouble paying for the medication should ask their pharmacist about discounts or programs to help pay for it.
The
GI side effects can lead to people skipping doses, resulting in incomplete treatment.
How to take it
The typical dose for chlamydia is
Side effects
Erythromycin is associated with GI side effects. Higher doses increase the risk.
Some common side effects can include:
- vomiting
- nausea
- diarrhea
- stomach cramping
- abdominal pain
- loss of appetite
Cost
The cost of erythromycin can vary based on location, generic or brand name, and insurance coverage.
A person should talk with a doctor or pharmacist about ways to lower their costs if needed.
The table below compares the different medications healthcare professionals use to treat chlamydia.
| Medication | How to take | CDC-recommended for chlamydia? | Side effects | Effectiveness | Safe for sex? | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doxycycline | Yes. | • diarrhea • nausea • vaginal yeast infection • vomiting • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight | 100% effective | safe following 7-day treatment or 7 days after one dose | about | |
| Azithromycin | 1 gram tablet in a single dose | Yes. | • diarrhea • headache • nausea • abdominal pain • vomiting | about 97% effective | should abstain from sex for 7 days following treatment | $0.16 per 250 mg tablet |
| Amoxicillin | Yes. | • vomiting • nausea • rash • vaginal yeast infection • diarrhea | maybe less effective due to resistant strains of bacteria | should abstain for 7 days during treatment | varies | |
| Erythromycin | No, due to GI side effects. | • vomiting • nausea • diarrhea • stomach cramping • abdominal pain • loss of appetite | may be less effective due to non-adherence to treatment | should abstain for 7 days during treatment | varies |
Modern treatment options for chlamydia can typically clear an infection within 7 days. A person should consider the following during treatment:
- avoid sexual intercourse of any type during treatment, including vaginal, anal, and oral, or for
7 days following a single dose treatment - have partner(s) get tested and receive treatment
- finish the prescribed medication and take as directed
Failure to take these steps can result in reinfection, a non-cured infection, and spreading it to others.
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection and requires antibiotics to cure. There are several different options, though a doctor will likely prescribe the medication best for the person.
During treatment, a person should abstain from sexual contact with others. They should also follow all instructions for taking the medication.