DoxyPEP is a pill taken after sex to help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like syphilis and chlamydia.
How DoxyPEP works
DoxyPEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) is a dose of antibiotics taken after sex that reduces the risk of acquiring syphilis and chlamydia.
DoxyPEP is up to 70% effective at preventing syphilis and chlamydia. DoxyPEP is much less effective at preventing gonorrhoea because most gonorrhoea acquired in the UK is already resistant to the antibiotic doxycycline.
Where to get DoxyPEP
Clinical guidelines on the use of doxyPEP in the UK recommend that doxyPEP is made available for those at increased risk of syphilis, including gay and bisexual men and trans women. DoxyPEP should be considered on a case by case basis for people assigned female at birth, including cisgender women and trans men who are at an increased risk of syphilis.
Currently, doxyPEP is only recommended to prevent syphilis not chlamydia, as the health risks of untreated syphilis are far more severe.
Taking DoxyPEP
DoxyPEP involves taking 200mg of the antibiotic doxycycline within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours after sex.
If you are having sex on more than one occasion over a 72-hour period, you can take a single 200mg dose of doxycycline at the end of the 72-hour period, rather than multiple doses, to be covered for the entire period.
Heavy alcohol use can decrease the effectiveness of doxycycline.
Avoiding taking doxycycline at the same time as antacids containing aluminium, calcium, magnesium or oral zinc, iron salts or bismuth preparations. It’s best to give at least two hours between taking doxyPEP and antacids.
If you are taking doxyPEP, it’s recommended that you test for STIs at least once every 3 months.
Side effects
Side effects from the antibiotic doxycycline can include photosensitivity, headache, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, and rash. To reduce any potential side effects it’s recommended that you take doxycycline with plenty of fluid and some food, remain upright for 30 minutes after taking a dose of doxyPEP, and avoid sunbeds and wear sunscreen with SPF.
More information:
If you like to speak to someone about DoxyPEP, call THT Direct on 0808 802 1221.
