Doxy PEP: A New Strategy to Prevent STIs Did you know that you can protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) after unprotected sex? An antibiotic called doxycycline can reduce your risk of common bacterial STIs by more than half if taken within 72 hours of sexual activity. When used this way, it is referred to as doxy post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Why Is Doxy PEP Important? STIs are common, especially among people who are sexually active. As a Warfighter, staying healthy is important for both your personal wellbeing and mission readiness. You can use doxy PEP as a tool to help protect yourself and your partners. How Does it Work? Doxy PEP can help protect you from getting chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea. These are some of the most common STIs in the military. They’re also preventable. Doxy PEP is a pill that can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, though the sooner the better. It’s most effective when taken within 24 hours of sexual activity and can be used daily if necessary. Who Should Use Doxy PEP? Doxy PEP is recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women, especially those who have had an STI in the past year. You may also want to ask your healthcare provider about doxy PEP if you have unprotected sex with multiple or anonymous partners. Some men who have sex with women may also want to consider doxy PEP. Your healthcare provider might suggest doxy PEP if you have sex without a condom with multiple partners and have had an STI in the past year. Doxy PEP is not recommended for women, including anyone who is or may become pregnant. What Else Should I Know? Doxy PEP only protects you from contracting new bacterial STIs, so it will not cure an existing infection. It’s important to continue getting tested for STIs while using doxy PEP. MSM should get tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis at least once a year. Your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent screening if you are living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or have multiple sex partners. Doxy PEP does not protect against HIV, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes or monkeypox. If you believe you are at risk for HIV, speak with your healthcare provider about available prevention methods such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). Where Can I Get Doxy PEP? Doxy PEP is available with a prescription through the TRICARE Pharmacy Program. Remember that for sexually active individuals, practicing safe sex is the best way to protect your health. Doxy PEP is not a replacement for other preventative measures like condoms, and instead should be thought of as an extra layer of protection against the most common STIs. If you want to learn more about doxy PEP or think it could benefit you, talk to your health care provider. Additional ResourcesVirginia Department of Health - “Doxy PEP for STI Prevention”ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention - “Clinical Guidelines on the Use of Doxycycline Postexposure Prophylaxis for Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention, United States, 2024”Virginia Department of Health - “Doxy PEP for STI Prevention”
