DoxyPEP is a promising new tool to help reduce sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in certain high-risk groups.
The taking of medications to proactively lower risk of getting HIV, also known as PrEP, has been around for over a decade. But now there’s a new kid on the block: DoxyPEP. It involves taking a commonly used antibiotic – Doxycycline – after sex to reduce the risk of some common bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Bacterial STIs include common ones like chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea. Self-administered doses of Doxycycline taken within 72 hours of sex can help reduce the risk of these infections. This summer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) put out their formal guidelines on the use of DoxyPEP. They recommend that healthcare providers discuss DoxyPEP with all gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men and transgender women with a history of at least one bacterial STI (gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis) in the last 12 months. They also recommend discussing it with others in that demographic who may not have been diagnosed with an STI in the past year but plan to engage in sexual encounters that can place them at risk.
What is DoxyPEP?
Doxycycline is an established antibiotic that is generally well tolerated by many though it does come with some potential side effects. These include inflammation of the food pipe (esophagitis) and a rash on exposure to sun (photosensitivity). Patients can counter the former by taking the medication with enough water and the latter by reducing sun exposure when using the medication. Some people may also be allergic to Doxycycline and therefore unable to take it.
Before starting DoxyPEP, patients should undergo a full set of labs for STI screening and also discuss PrEP to protect against HIV. Patients prescribed DoxyPEP should also come in every three months for STI testing and to reassess sexual risks.
Keep in mind that researchers are still studying the long-term side effects of using DoxyPEP. Consequently, the CDC may update its guidelines as we learn more. In the meantime, if you or someone you know is at risk for STIs, then consider asking your provider how to get on DoxyPEP today!
Is DoxyPEP right for your community?
Primary.Health enables communities, public health organizations, and other large groups to provide accessible and discreet STI testing and treatment, including PrEP and DoxyPEP, at scale. Contact our Provider team today to learn about the wide range of testing, treatment, and preventative screenings available through our Community Clinics solution.
Disclaimer: This blog content and linked materials are not intended as individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered as such. Any readers with medical concerns should contact a licensed healthcare provider. This blog is provided for informational purposes only.
