CDC recommends doxy PEP for STI prevention

Cases of syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea are on the rise in the United States, but clinical evidence shows that taking doxycycline 200 mg within 72 hours of a sexual encounter can significantly reduce infections.

CDC recommends doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis (doxy PEP) for high-risk populations, including men who have sex with men and transgender women.

According to the agency’s guidelines, individuals in these groups who have had a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) within the past year should be counseled on doxy PEP and offered a prescription to be self-administered as needed, within dosing recommendations.

The optimal setting for doxy PEP, according to CDC sources, is in the context of a comprehensive sexual health plan, to also include risk reduction counseling, STI testing and treatment, recommended vaccination, and continuation of care with other HIV services and other resources as warranted.

Users of doxy PEP should be screened at baseline and every 3 to 6 months thereafter, at which time providers should also reevaluate the need for doxy PEP and perform HIV testing.