Published on Nov 14, 2023 | 2:19 PM
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How It Works, Who It’s For, and What to Know
DoxyPEP, short for doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, is a preventive strategy that involves taking a dose of the antibiotic doxycycline after sexual exposure to reduce the risk of certain bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
DoxyPEP is not a vaccine and does not prevent all STIs. It is a risk-reduction tool recommended for specific populations based on evidence showing reduced rates of some bacterial STIs when used correctly.
DoxyPEP works by inhibiting bacterial growth shortly after exposure, before infection becomes established.
When taken within a recommended time window after sex, doxycycline can reduce the likelihood of acquiring:
Chlamydia
Syphilis
Gonorrhea (effectiveness varies due to resistance)
DoxyPEP does not prevent viral STIs such as HIV, herpes, HPV, or hepatitis.
Current guidance recommends DoxyPEP primarily for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women who have had a recent bacterial STI and are at ongoing risk.
DoxyPEP is not recommended for everyone. Decisions about use should be individualized and made with a healthcare provider based on sexual health history, risk factors, and local resistance patterns.
DoxyPEP involves taking a single dose of doxycycline after sex, typically within 72 hours of exposure, and not exceeding recommended dosing frequency.
It is intended for episodic use, not daily continuous use, and should be paired with regular STI testing and sexual health follow-up.
DoxyPEP has been shown to significantly reduce rates of chlamydia and syphilis in certain populations.
However, there are important limitations:
It does not prevent all STIs
Effectiveness against gonorrhea varies
It does not replace condoms, PrEP, or routine testing
Antibiotic resistance is a consideration
For these reasons, DoxyPEP should be used as part of a comprehensive sexual health strategy.
Doxycycline is generally well tolerated, but side effects can occur.
Common side effects may include nausea, stomach upset, photosensitivity, and esophageal irritation. Taking the medication with water and avoiding lying down immediately afterward can help reduce discomfort.
A healthcare provider can help determine whether DoxyPEP is safe based on medical history and other medications.
DoxyPEP is most effective when combined with:
Regular STI screening
HIV testing and PrEP when appropriate
Condom use and risk-reduction counseling
Ongoing medical follow-up
This approach supports both individual health and public health goals.
CallOnDoc offers confidential, clinician-guided sexual health care through telehealth.
Through a virtual visit, patients can:
Discuss whether DoxyPEP is appropriate
Review STI history and risk factors
Get guidance on testing, prevention, and follow-up care
Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.
updated 01/27/2026 Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
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