Antibiotics used for gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection that can affect the genitals, rectum, or throat. Some people have discharge, pain when passing urine, pelvic pain, testicular pain, or rectal symptoms, while others notice nothing. The antibiotic choice must follow current local recommendations because resistance can make some medicines unreliable. Testing identifies the infection site and allows checks for other sexually transmitted infections. A previous prescription or medicine borrowed from someone else may leave infection untreated.

Receive every prescribed dose and follow instructions about avoiding sexual contact until treatment requirements are met and partners have been managed. Recent sexual partners should be told confidentially so they can obtain testing and treatment, even when they have no symptoms. A clinic can explain notification options if contacting a partner feels difficult or unsafe. Attend any advised repeat test or follow-up, particularly when infection involved the throat or symptoms persist. Barrier protection lowers exposure but does not replace testing after a possible contact.

Get prompt medical assessment for increasing lower abdominal or pelvic pain, fever with pelvic symptoms, testicular pain or swelling, or joint pain accompanied by a rash or fever. Seek emergency help for severe illness, fainting, breathing difficulty, or facial or throat swelling after treatment. Return to the sexual health service if discharge, urinary pain, or other symptoms continue or return. Persistent symptoms can reflect reinfection, another condition, or an infection needing further testing rather than a reason to repeat leftover antibiotics.

Ask which body sites should be tested based on sexual contact, when sexual activity can resume, how partners can access care, and whether a follow-up test is advised. Discuss pregnancy, medicine allergies, symptoms in the throat or rectum, recent antibiotic use, and any risk of coercion or violence. You can also request testing guidance for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted infections.