Getting Chlamydia Treatment Online in the UK: Process and Availability

Eligibility & Process

• Available via NHS-commissioned or private online pharmacies in England, Scotland, Wales.
• Patient completes an online clinical questionnaire (symptoms, partner notification, allergy, pregnancy, medical history).
• Pharmacist reviews; if appropriate, prescribes and arranges discreet delivery (or pharmacy collection).

Standard Treatment

• Doxycycline 100 mg PO BID × 7 days (first-line).
• Azithromycin 1 g PO single dose (alternative; e.g., pregnancy, adherence concerns).

Follow-Up

• Test-of-cure at 6 weeks if pregnant, symptomatic, or treated with azithromycin (higher failure risk).
• Partner notification & treatment essential (pharmacy may provide partner packs).
• Re-test at 3 months (high reinfection rate).

Limitations

• Not suitable for complicated infections (PID, epididymitis, rectal/pharyngeal with symptoms) – need in-person assessment.
• Requires internet access, digital literacy, and ability to self-swab (if test kit sent first).