For treatment of secondary syphilis, how is IM penicillin administered?

The treatment for secondary syphilis typically involves the administration of benzathine penicillin G via intramuscular (IM) injection. For this stage of syphilis, a single dose is sufficient to achieve effective therapeutic levels and eradicate the spirochetal infection caused by Treponema pallidum.

In the case of secondary syphilis, studies and clinical guidelines assert that a one-time dose of benzathine penicillin G (usually 2.4 million units IM) provides adequate treatment for the condition. This effectiveness is supported by the pharmacokinetics of the drug, which allows for prolonged circulation of penicillin in the host's system, effectively treating the infection.

While there are treatments for other stages of syphilis that may involve more complex dosing regimens, such as early latent syphilis or tertiary syphilis where different approaches might be used, the concise and effective management of secondary syphilis with a single injection streamlines the treatment process and minimizes the burden on patients. This is why a one-time administration is the correct approach for treating secondary syphilis.