DoxyPEP is a doxycycline antibiotic which can help prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infections, like chlamydia and syphilis.
To use doxyPEP, you'll take 200mg of doxycycline (two 100mg pills) within a 24 hour timeframe (no later than 72 hours) after sex. You should not take more than 200mg within a 24 hour period. If you have sex again, you should wait at least 24 hours before taking another dose.
It is advised that you avoid dairy, antacids, and supplements with calcium, magnesium, or iron for two hours before or after your dose. These can make doxyPEP less effective.
Speak with your axess sexual health clinician about doxyPEP.
Studies show that doxyPEP can reduce the chance of getting chlamydia by 70-89%, syphilis by 73-87% and gonorrhoea by 51-57%.
It does not give protection against infections caused by viruses. This includes herpes, warts, HIV and heptatitis.
Doxycycline can make skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light. If you use doxyPEP regularly, it's advised that you use sunscreen and be careful in the sun.
You may encounter a mild side effect of nausea, headaches or stomach irritation. You should take doxyPEP with a large glass of water and some food. This may help to reduce the chance of any side effects.
It is encouraged that you stay upright for about 30 minutes after taking it. This can help you to avoid acid reflux.
Antibiotic resistance describes when bacteria changes to become resistant to the antibiotics used to treat them.
Some people worry that regular use of doxycycline may lead to antibiotic resistance, or upset the balance of healthy bacteria in a person's gut.
However, many experts believe that antibiotic resistance caused by regular use of doxycycline is unlikely to be a problem, as it is already provided long-term for other health issues without causing any problems.
Doxycycline should not be used in pregnancy.
If you are allergic to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics, you should not use doxyPEP.
Certain medications, such as indigestion remedies, acne treatments with vitamin A, blood thinners, or epilepsy medications, should not be used alongside doxycycline. Speak with your doctor or clinician about the medications you're currently taking.
