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What Is the Treatment for Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)?

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) can be resolved with a course of antibiotics. The most common meds for LGV are:

  • Doxycycline 100mg, twice daily for 21 days
  • Erythromycin 500mg, four times daily for 21 days
  • Azithromycin 1gm, once a week for 21 days

Antibiotic Treatments for LGV

Doxycycline is the CDC’s recommended treatment option. However, it isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Your healthcare provider will recommend the best treatment for you.

Medical experts recommend that anyone showing signs of LGV start taking antibiotics immediately, followed up by testing to confirm the diagnosis.

People with HIV should take the same antibiotics for LGV as people who are HIV-negative. However, they may need a longer course of meds to clear the infection.

Inform Your Partners

If you are being treated for LGV, it is recommended to notify anyone you’ve had sex with in the last two to three months. They should see a healthcare provider to see whether they also need treatment.

Treating LGV Pain

When the lymph nodes swell from LGV, they can become very painful. Your healthcare provider may drain them as part of your treatment to make you more comfortable.

Recovering From LGV

You should take your entire course of antibiotics, even if you notice your symptoms improving. Four weeks after you finish your meds, get retested for LGV. This will confirm whether your treatment has been successful.

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