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Prescription Medication Information

This page provides information for DoxyPEP 100 mg (doxycycline hyclate). Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) represents the first new STI prevention tool in decades, designed to help reduce the risk of bacterial STIs when taken after sexual exposure [citation:4]. It is a patient-managed biomedical prevention strategy recommended by the CDC for specific at-risk populations [citation:3].

What is DoxyPEP?

DoxyPEP is the use of the antibiotic doxycycline taken after sex to prevent bacterial STIs. It is sometimes called the "morning after pill" for STIs. When taken within 72 hours of exposure, doxycycline works by stopping the growth of bacteria before an infection can establish itself. This strategy is not a replacement for condoms or HIV PrEP but works alongside them for comprehensive sexual health protection [citation:2][citation:5].

Product Specifications

• Product Name: Doxycycline (DoxyPEP)
• Strength: 100 mg per capsule
• Dose for PEP: Two 100 mg capsules (200 mg total)
• Form: Oral Capsule or Tablet
• CDC Recommendation: For gay, bisexual, and other MSM and transgender women with a bacterial STI in the last 12 months [citation:2]
• Prescribing Service: Healthymale.com

How DoxyPEP Works

Doxycycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the tetracycline class. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively stopping the growth of bacteria that cause syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Clinical trial data demonstrate:

• Syphilis: Over 70% reduction in risk
• Chlamydia: Over 70% reduction in risk
• Gonorrhea: Approximately 50% reduction in risk [citation:3]

How to Take DoxyPEP

The recommended dosage is 200 mg (two 100 mg capsules) taken as a single dose. Follow these guidelines for optimal effectiveness [citation:2][citation:5]:

• Timing: Take as soon as possible after condomless sex, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours
• Frequency: Do not take more than 200 mg in any 24-hour period
• With Food/Water: Take with at least 8 ounces of water and food to reduce nausea and esophageal irritation
• Upright Position: Do not lie down for 30-60 minutes after taking to prevent esophageal injury
• Avoid Dairy/Iron/Calcium: Do not take within 2 hours of dairy products, antacids, or supplements containing calcium, magnesium, or iron, as these interfere with absorption [citation:5]

Who Is DoxyPEP For?

CDC guidelines recommend that healthcare providers discuss DoxyPEP with [citation:2][citation:4]:

• Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women
• Those who have had a bacterial STI (syphilis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea) diagnosed in the past 12 months
• Those who will be participating in sexual activities known to pose an increased risk of infection

What DoxyPEP Does and Does Not Prevent

Prevents (with high efficacy):

• Syphilis
• Chlamydia

Prevents (with moderate efficacy):

• Gonorrhea (approximately 50% reduction)

Does NOT prevent:

• HIV (Pre-exposure prophylaxis/PrEP is still needed)
• Herpes (HSV)
• HPV (human papillomavirus)
• Hepatitis B and C
• Mpox [citation:2]

Important Safety Information

Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, reflux. These can often be reduced by taking with food and water [citation:5].

Photosensitivity: Doxycycline increases sensitivity to sunlight. Wear sunscreen, cover up, and avoid tanning beds while taking this medication [citation:5].

Esophageal Irritation: To prevent esophagitis, take with a full glass of water and remain upright for 30-60 minutes after dosing [citation:5].

Serious Side Effects (Rare): Intracranial hypertension (refractory headaches, vision changes) requires immediate medical evaluation. Discontinue and contact your healthcare provider if these occur [citation:5].

Contraindications and Precautions

• Contraindicated during pregnancy: Potential adverse effects on the fetus [citation:5]
• Do not use concurrently with other doxycycline or tetracycline-class antibiotics for conditions like acne or rosacea [citation:5]
• Inform your healthcare provider of all medications, including blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) and isotretinoin [citation:6]

Required Medical Monitoring

Patients prescribed DoxyPEP should follow a comprehensive sexual health approach [citation:2][citation:3]:

• STI Screening: Test for bacterial STIs at anatomic sites of exposure at baseline and every 3-6 months
• HIV Testing: Routine HIV screening according to current recommendations
• Follow-up Visits: Regular visits to reassess ongoing need for DoxyPEP
• Side Effect Assessment: Monitor for and report any adverse effects

Antimicrobial Resistance Considerations

Long-term use of doxycycline may select for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Studies have shown an increase in tetracycline resistance genes in the gut microbiome of individuals using DoxyPEP over 6-month periods [citation:1][citation:6]. Use DoxyPEP only as directed by your healthcare provider and continue regular STI screening to ensure appropriate use [citation:2].

Get Started

DoxyPEP requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Complete a confidential online consultation to determine if DoxyPEP is right for you. Your privacy is protected throughout the entire process, and medication is delivered discreetly to your door when prescribed.