Certain Lots of Syphilis Medication Recalled

July 31, 2025

Physicians who see patients with syphilis should note that there is a voluntary recall of specific lots of Bicillin® L-A (Penicillin G Benzathine Injectable Suspension) by King Pharmaceuticals LLC., a subsidiary of Pfizer.  

The recalled lots can be found at Pfizer: Bicillin Recall Letter. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is not aware of any adverse events associated with this issue, and there is no indication at this time of reduced efficacy or need for retreatment. 

Considering this recall and high levels of syphilis diagnoses in the United States (as detailed in the National Overview of STIs in 2023), CDC anticipates a limited supply of Bicillin L-A moving forward. Penicillin is the only recommended treatment for pregnant patients and babies with congenital syphilis. Given this information, the CDC recommends prioritizing Bicillin L-A for treating patients who are pregnant and for infants with congenital syphilis. 

More information and full recommendations can be found on a resource created by the Minnestoa Department of Health  - Bicillin L-A® Recall and Anticipated Shortage.