Availability of STI Testing & Treatment Products

Purpose

To provide timely information about shortages related to STI testing and treatment products.

Blister pack of capsules and a caution sign.

NOTICE

  • Visit the FDA's Drug Shortages page for information on all current and resolved drug shortages and discontinuations reported to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
  • Notify DSTDP (stdshortages@cdc.gov) of any shortage or low inventories of STI treatments in your jurisdiction so CDC can continue monitoring treatment availability.

Bicillin L-A® Shortage

Update from FDA - September 9, 2024: FDA's website has been updated to reflect "Available" supply of 2.4 million Units/4 milliliter Bicillin L-A® and 1.2 million Units/2 milliliter Bicillin L-A®. Available supply means that Bicillin L-A® should be used for all appropriate patients per CDC's standard guidance.

The pediatric presentation, 600000 Units/1 milliliter Bicillin L-A®, remains unavailable.

See FDA's website for more information.

Update from Pfizer – June 10, 2024: Pfizer noted that they currently have available supply of 2.4 million Units/4 milliliter Bicillin L-A®. If there is sufficient supply of Bicillin L-A ® in your jurisdiction, please consider using Bicillin L-A® for all appropriate patients, per CDC's standard guidance. See Clinical Reminders during Bicillin L-A® Shortage for more information.

On 1/16/2024, the FDA announced that they have exercised enforcement discretion for a temporary importation and use of Extencillin (benzathine benzylpenicillin injection, powder, for suspension) to mitigate the effects of the Bicillin L-A® drug shortage. See more in this CDC letter.

Bicillin L-A® is the first-line recommended treatment for syphilis and the only recommended treatment option for some patients.

CDC continues to monitor the situation and will post updates as needed.