Doxy-PEP
Doxy-PEP is a new tool that is effective in preventing syphilis and chlamydia. It is less effective against gonorrhoea. Studies so far have only shown it to work for men, transgender women and non-binary people assigned male sex at birth who have sex with other men. It is not recommended for other people.
Eligibility for Doxy-PEP
Given the increase of people with syphilis in Auckland, and the seriousness of the infection, Auckland Sexual Health is offering Doxy-PEP to eligible people at risk.
- Those with a new diagnosis of syphilis at their current visit, or infectious syphilis within the past 12 months.
- Those with 2 diagnoses of a bacterial STI (syphilis, gonorrhoea or chlaymdia) on separate occasions in the past 12 months.
If you think that doxy-PEP might be of benefit to you, phone Auckland Sexual Health on 0800 739 432 to book an appointment to discuss this further.
Taking Doxy-PEP
You take 2 antibiotic tablets (called doxycycline) within 72 hours of sexual activity. This has been shown to reduce the chances of catching:
- syphilis by 70% to 80%
- chlamydia by 70% to 90%.
Potential risks from Doxy-PEP
There are potential risks for people taking any new medication. There are concerns that because doxy-PEP is an antibiotic it could increase antibiotic resistance for other infections.