Gonorrhea Treatment: Is One Injection Enough?

Inquiry about Gonorrhea

Recently, I've been experiencing pain while urinating, and there is also yellow discharge.
Today, I visited a urology clinic, and the doctor only asked about the color of the discharge.
He diagnosed it as gonorrhea and administered a very painful injection, stating that one dose would be sufficient and that I wouldn't need to take any pills.
However, I have seen posts here suggesting that a single injection is not always effective and that multiple injections may be necessary.
Can I be cured with just this one injection?

Johnny, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/09

Dr. Liu Mingyue reply Urology

Usually, a bacterial culture is required for a definitive diagnosis; however, sometimes physicians may diagnose based on medical history and symptoms.
For a typical urinary tract infection, a single dose of antibiotic injection may be effective, but it is advisable for you to return for follow-up in the outpatient clinic regarding your condition.

Reply Date: 2018/04/09

More Info

Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is typically treated with antibiotics. The treatment regimen has evolved over the years due to increasing antibiotic resistance. In many cases, a single injection of a long-acting antibiotic, such as ceftriaxone, is effective for treating gonorrhea. However, the effectiveness of this treatment can depend on several factors, including the site of infection, the presence of co-infections, and the patient's overall health.

In your case, it sounds like your doctor administered a single injection to treat your gonorrhea. This approach is common, especially for uncomplicated cases of urethral gonorrhea. The injection is often accompanied by counseling on safe sex practices and the importance of notifying sexual partners, as they may also need treatment to prevent reinfection.

However, it is essential to understand that while a single injection can be effective, there are instances where additional treatment may be necessary. For example, if the infection is located in a more complicated area, such as the throat or rectum, or if there are signs of disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), further treatment may be required. Additionally, if you have symptoms that persist after treatment, or if you have a concurrent infection, your healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation and possibly additional antibiotics.

Regarding your concern about whether one injection is sufficient, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a test of cure, especially if you continue to experience symptoms after treatment. This follow-up is particularly important in cases where symptoms do not resolve, as it could indicate treatment failure or the presence of another infection.

In terms of side effects, the injection itself can be painful, and some individuals may experience soreness at the injection site. Other potential side effects of antibiotics can include allergic reactions, gastrointestinal upset, or changes in normal flora, leading to conditions such as yeast infections. If you experience any severe reactions or if your symptoms worsen, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while a single injection of an appropriate antibiotic can effectively treat gonorrhea in many cases, it is essential to remain vigilant about your symptoms and follow up with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on whether additional treatment or testing is necessary based on your specific situation. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or ongoing symptoms you may have.

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