What is the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction in gonorrhea?

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Last updated: May 23, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

The Gonorrhea Huxheimer reaction is not a recognized medical term or phenomenon in medical literature, and thus, there is no established treatment or recommendation for it. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is typically treated with antibiotics.

Current Treatment Recommendations

Current recommended treatment for uncomplicated gonorrhea in most regions includes ceftriaxone 500mg as a single intramuscular injection, often combined with azithromycin 1g orally in a single dose to address potential co-infection with chlamydia, as supported by the most recent guidelines 1, 2.

Importance of Testing and Partner Notification

Treatment should be followed by testing to confirm cure, and all sexual partners from the previous 60 days should be notified, tested, and treated.

Potential Complications

Gonorrhea can cause complications if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis in men. The infection may present with symptoms such as discharge, pain during urination, or may be asymptomatic, particularly in women.

Consultation with a Healthcare Provider

If you're concerned about gonorrhea or its treatment, consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapy. The provider can assess the situation and provide guidance based on the latest evidence and guidelines, such as those discussed in 3, 4, 5.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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