The British Association for Sexual Health & HIV (BASHH) has produced guidance on the use of doxycycline after sex (DoxyPEP) to reduce the risk of acquiring syphilis and chlamydia. Doxycycline is an antibiotic used to treat these infections, and research shows that taking a single 200 mg dose within 72 hours after sex can reduce the chance of getting these infections by around 80%.
Lothian Sexual Health Service is currently preparing for the introduction of DoxyPEP within our clinics. We expect to offer it to some people who use HIV PrEP and may be at higher risk of syphilis, in line with national recommendations.
At present, we are not yet able to provide DoxyPEP in our services, but we hope to make it available soon. Please check our website and social media channels for updates. Some people may choose to self-source DoxyPEP online while services are being developed.
For accessible information about DoxyPEP, you may find the Little Back Pocket Guide (The Love Tank CIC) helpful: Little Back Pocket Guide informs about DoxyPEP — The Love Tank CIC“