Key Messages:
- Pfizer recently updated (PDF) the estimated recovery of the Bicillin L-A shortage to the 4th Quarter of 2026.
- The next delivery of Bicillin® L-A 1.2 MU and 2.4 MU prefilled syringes is anticipated to be July 2026; the next delivery of the pediatric 600,000 Units prefilled syringes is expected to be December 2026.
- Health care providers and entities should continue to prioritize long-acting penicillin-based treatments (Bicillin® L-A & Lentocilin®) for the treatment of pregnant people with syphilis and infants exposed to syphilis in utero.
- Extencilline® is no longer available for distribution.
- Oral doxycycline is an acceptable alternative treatment for non-pregnant adults with primary, secondary, early/late latent syphilis and syphilis of unknown duration.
This health update is issued to inform healthcare providers about the Bicillin L-A shortage and provide medication alternatives. Pfizer recently updated the estimated recovery of the Bicillin L-A shortage to the 4th Quarter of 2026. Healthcare providers and entities should continue to prioritize long-acting penicillin-based treatments (Bicillin® L-A & Lentocilin®) for the treatment of pregnant people with syphilis and infants exposed to syphilis in utero. Extencilline® is no longer available for distribution. Oral doxycycline is an acceptable alternative treatment for non-pregnant adults with primary, secondary, early/late latent syphilis and syphilis of unknown duration.
Advisory: Update on Bicillin® L-A (penicillin G benzathine injectable suspension) Shortage: Inventory Review and Clinical Guidance
