NSU treatment, discreet and clinically reviewed

What is non-specific urethritis?

Non-specific urethritis (NSU) means inflammation of the urethra — the tube that carries urine out of the body — that is not caused by gonorrhoea. It is most commonly diagnosed in men, though the underlying infection (if bacterial) can affect any sexual partner. Symptoms typically include a discharge from the penis or urethra, a burning feeling when urinating, or simply an irritation at the tip of the urethra.

The "non-specific" label means the exact cause has not been identified, or has not yet been tested for. Common culprits include chlamydia, mycoplasma genitalium, and ureaplasma — all of which can be detected by a urethral swab or urine test at a sexual health clinic.

How is NSU treated?

NSU responds well to a short antibiotic course. UK guidelines recommend two antibiotics as first- and second-line options depending on what testing reveals or, where no testing has been done, the most likely bacterial cause. Most people notice an improvement in symptoms within a few days of starting treatment, with the full course completed in one to two weeks.

Any sexual partners should also be tested and, where appropriate, treated at the same time to prevent re-infection.

Should I get tested before treating?

Ideally, yes — particularly if you have not had a recent sexual health screen. Testing identifies the specific organism involved, which guides the best antibiotic choice. If a sexual health clinic has assessed you and recommended empirical treatment (where testing is in progress or not available), an online consultation is appropriate to obtain the prescription quickly.

Treating NSU with NewGen

NewGen Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered online and community pharmacy. Complete a short confidential consultation, and a UK prescriber will review whether an antibiotic course can be issued. Treatment is dispatched in plain, unbranded packaging. This service suits straightforward NSU where you have been assessed by a clinician and testing has been done or arranged.

How the consultation works

You will be asked about your symptoms, whether you have been seen by a clinician, any testing that has been done, any antibiotic allergies, and current medicines. The prescriber reviews your answers before issuing any prescription. If the consultation suggests you need in-person assessment first, we will tell you clearly and direct you to the appropriate service.

When to attend a sexual health clinic instead

Please attend a sexual health clinic if you have not yet been assessed in person, if you have pelvic or testicular pain, if symptoms are severe or have not improved after a previous course, or if you have symptoms suggesting another infection. NSU in women is less commonly diagnosed but pelvic symptoms in any person warrant in-person assessment.