General · Texas behavioral health news
Bicillin Shortage Update
Texas DSHS · By Dan.Warr · April 20, 2026
In plain language
Texas health officials are providing an update on a nationwide shortage of Bicillin, a common injectable medication used to treat syphilis. Manufacturers now expect the supply to return to normal levels by the end of 2026. Because of this limited supply, health departments are saving the remaining injections for priority patients, such as pregnant women or those with certain allergies. Most other patients will be prescribed an alternative oral medication to ensure they still receive effective treatment.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- The shortage of the injectable syphilis medication Bicillin is expected to last until late 2026.
- Texas health departments are prioritizing the remaining supply for pregnant patients and those allergic to other treatments.
- Patients who are not in high-priority groups may be prescribed oral doxycycline instead of an injection.
- Texas health officials expect to receive a limited new shipment of prefilled syringes in July 2026.
- The state is following federal CDC guidelines to manage the supply and ensure the most vulnerable patients get treated.
Bicillin Shortage Update Dan.Warr Mon, 04/20/2026 - 02:12 PM Bicillin Shortage Update This page provides information about Bicillin Shortage Update. April 15, 2026Subject: Update on Availability of Penicillin G benzathine injectable suspension products (Bicillin® L-A) through the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) PharmacyDSHS announces Pfizer’s recently updated estimated recovery of the Bicillin® L-A shortage to the 4th quarter of 2026. DSHS anticipates the next delivery of Bicillin® L-A 1.2 MU and 2.4 MU prefilled syringes in July 2026.The DSHS Pharmacy maintains an adequate supply to provide medications to local health departments for the treatment of priority patients. DSHS follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for the use of Bicillin® L-A for the treatment of pregnant women with syphilis and patients allergic to docycycline. DSHS recommends an oral doxycycline regimen for all other cases.Please contact 340B@dshs.texas.gov with any question
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