STD treatment: A quick overview

Regardless of the infection, STD treatment is most effective when the STD is diagnosed and treated early. Routine STD testing provides a diagnosis sooner rather than later, avoiding complications and minimizing the chance of unknowingly spreading the infection further. Here’s an overview of four major STDs and their treatment:

Chlamydia treatment: This common STD is cured with antibiotics, typically azithromycin (and some doctors are adding cefixime). It’s important to avoid sex until the antibiotics have had time to fully cycle through the body. Also, all partners who may have been exposed to the infection should have a chlamydia test and receive treatment. Prompt chlamydia treatment is crucial in avoiding long-term repercussions.

Gonorrhea treatment: Gonorrhea treatment is similar to chlamydia treatment, however this STD requires a different antibiotic regimen. While gonorrhea symptoms and chlamydia symptoms are nearly identical, STD testing is required to determine the correct treatment. Like chlamydia, prompt gonorrhea treatment is necessary to avoid complications.

HIV treatment: Unlike gonorrhea and chlamydia, HIV is not curable. However, when diagnosed early, HIV treatment can manage this virus and help prevent it from progressing to AIDS. HIV treatment requires a combination of antiretroviral therapy (known as HAART), administered under a doctor’s supervision. Today, advances in medicine have made HIV a chronic, manageable illness enabling those infected to live long, healthy lives.

Genital herpes treatment: This STD is not curable, but is not life threatening. More than anything, genital herpes is a nuisance. Genital herpes treatment can help keep symptoms at bay and make those infected less contagious. Antiviral medication, like acyclovir, can suppress herpes outbreaks when taken daily.

Find an STD testing center near you. Get Lab Tested can provide scripts (with positive test results) for chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes and trichomoniasis in some states. Give us a call at 877-317-3178 to find out if this service is available in your area.