Author: Emily Browand, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner at The Arlene Cooper Community Health Center
What is Doxy-PEP? An Introduction to Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
Doxy-PEP stands for Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is used in the treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) including syphilis and chlamydia. When you take Doxy-PEP correctly it can decrease the transmission rates of syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea by two thirds. Some people refer to Doxy-PEP as the morning after pill for STI’s.
How and When to Use Doxy-PEP
Doxy-PEP involves taking 200mg of doxycycline (2 pills of 100mg) at the same time. Doxy-PEP should be taken as soon after but no later than 72 hours (3 days) after an unprotected sexual encounter (oral, vaginal, anal) (Kurtzman, 2023). Regardless of how much unprotected sex you have, you should not take more that 200mg of doxycycline in a 24-hour period. See chart below for example of how to take doxy-PEP.
You should avoid dairy for 2 hours after taking doxycycline and drink a lot of water while taking these pills. These pills can be taken with food if you have a sensitive stomach. Providers will typically write prescriptions for 60 pills so you can keep some at home, some in your gym/to go bag, and have them ready when you need. 60 pills will last you for 30 encounters.
Rising STI Rates: Why Doxy-PEP is Essential Now More Than Ever
Nevada ranks 9th in the United States for new sexually transmitted disease cases and ranks 1st for new syphilis cases. Syphilis cases in the US are skyrocketing; from 2018-2022 reported cases rose 80% in the US; left untreated this disease can be devastating and deadly (Winny, 2024). Effective and acceptable interventions are needed to halt the rise in syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Doxycycline is effective against chlamydia and syphilis, has an excellent safety profile and low-cost generic formulations. These factors make it a strong, safe, and affordable candidate for STI prophylaxis (Luetkemeye, et al., 2023). Sex can be fun, fulfilling and an important part of our lives. We want you to have fun and also keep yourself and others safe from illness.
Who Should Use Doxy-PEP? Safety and Accessibility for Everyone
Everyone and anyone who is having sex. However you identify Doxy-PEP is safe for you. Even if you take Doxy-PEP with every unprotected sexual encounter it is recommend that you have STI testing (including HIV) every 3 months. If you have any questions, you should always discuss them with your healthcare provider. Did you know that you can prevent HIV too? Ask your healthcare provider for more information.
Schedule an appointment at The Arlene Cooper Community Health Center today to discuss your options!
About the Author
Emily Browand, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Born and raised under the cloudy skies of Portland, Oregon, Emily has embraced a life of adventure and service. Emily has lived in a variety of places including Alaska, Montana, and Central America, each of which has enriched her perspective and approach in her family practice role. Her career in healthcare spans over two decades, during which she has dedicated herself to delivering compassionate, safe, and high-quality care.
Before becoming a Nurse Practitioner, Emily developed her expertise while working in the demanding Trauma ICU at Sunrise Hospital. Now, with a focus on family practice, she provides comprehensive care across the lifespan, specializing in gender-affirming care and HIV management. Emily's approach is centered on creating a safe, non-biased space where all patients are welcomed and valued.
When she's not in the clinic, Emily is an avid outdoorswoman. Whether hiking, biking, skiing, or simply soaking up the sun, she cherishes time spent in nature, preferably accompanied by her two huskies. Emily’s lifestyle and professional ethos reflect her commitment to well-being, inclusivity, and the spirit of community service.
-------------------
References
Luetkemeye, A. Donnell, D., Dombrowski, J., et al. (2023) Postexposure doxycycline to prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infection. New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2211934
Kurtzman, L. (2023). Doxycycline for STI prevention: Highly effective, minimal drug resistance. University of California, San Francisco. www.ucsf.edu/news/2023/02/424861/doxycycling-sti-prevention-highly-effective-minimal-drug-resistance
Winny, A. (2023). The US syphilis spike has been brewing for decades. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
