Syphilis
SMFM is monitoring the latest on syphilis. We will continue to provide helpful resources for clinicians and patients. Please check back frequently for any new information.
The Latest on Syphilis
SMFM Notice on Bicillin® L-A Recall (Posted July 18, 2025, Last Updated September 23, 2026)
- On July 10, 2025, King Pharmaceuticals LLC., a subsidy of Pfizer, issued a notice informing customers about a new voluntary recall of selected lots of Bicillin® L-A (Penicillin G Benzathine Injectable Suspension) distributed from December 11, 2023 through June 24, 2025. Pfizer is initiating this recall due to particulates identified during visual inspection. The lots are listed in the recall notice.
- On January 21, 2026, Pfizer issued a letter to provide an update on the availability of Bicillin L-A (penicillin G benzathine injectable suspension) prefilled syringes. The shortage has been extended into Q4 of 2026, and Pfizer will continue to monitor supply and provide updates as additional information becomes available.
- On September 21, 2026, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) granted Pfizer’s request to extend the shelf life of Bicillin® L-A. Access the FDA’s Drug Shortages page to see a list of extended use dates for specific lot numbers.
- Extencilline and Lentocilin© were approved by the FDA for temporary importation due to prior shortages and remain available for those who are affected by this recall and have challenges procuring sufficient Bicillin® L-A to meet their needs.
- SMFM supports the use of Extencilline and Lentocilin© for the treatment of patients with syphilis in pregnancy when Bicillin® L-A is unavailable.
- Visit the CDC Page on Bicillin Recall for more information.
Access the latest patient education resources developed by the SMFM Patient Education Committee. Patent education content reflects current, published SMFM practice guidelines. All content has undergone extensive internal review before publication.
Included below are a list of resources for educational purposes, and does not necessarily indicate SMFM endorsement of these resources, unless otherwise noted:
- Endorsement of ACOG Practice Advisory on Syphilis Screening During Pregnancy, recommending all pregnant individuals should be screened serologically for syphilis at the first prenatal care visit, followed by universal rescreening during the third trimester and again at birth.
- Supplemental ACOG Physician FAQs on Syphilis Screening in Pregnancy.
- Endorsement of ASTHO Call to Action on Syphilis Treatment and Screening.
- CDC's Syphilis Tools App designed to support healthcare providers in syphilis screening, testing, and treatment. It offers an interactive clinical reference that allows providers to: interpret serologic tests; identify syphilis stages; determine treatment regimens; monitor titers; and access county-based syphilis screening recommendations.
SMFM Podcast on Syphilis Complications of Pregnancy and Congenital Syphilis
In this episode, Dr. Ahmed Zaki Moustafa and Dr. Irene Stafford discuss the rising cases of syphilis among pregnant individuals in the United States. They cover diagnostic challenges, treatment recommendations, and the management of both maternal and congenital syphilis. They also explore the need for future research directions and emphasize the importance of early screening and partner treatment.
In this episode, Dr. Ahmed Zaki Moustafa and Dr. Irene Stafford discuss the rising cases of syphilis among pregnant individuals in the United States. They cover diagnostic challenges, treatment recommendations, and the management of both maternal and congenital syphilis. They also explore the need for future research directions and emphasize the importance of early screening and partner treatment.
Updated September 23, 2026