But dont throw out your condoms just yet.
Read on to find out who this pill can help, and how it works.
What is DoxyPEP (doxycycline)?
Doxycycline has been around the block a few times, and has proven itself effective.
Healthcare providers already use DoxyPEP to treat chlamydia, and sometimes syphilis and gonorrhea.
The CDC now plans to release guidelines for prophylactic use later this summer.
certified nurse practitioner and director of clinical operations, TBD Health
Experts say the sooner, the better.
You dont need to know your partners infection status to use it.
You also dont need to wait until youve had condomless sex to get a prescription.
Fortunately, since its an older drug, its relatively inexpensive and readily available.
Even without insurance, DoxyPEP should run you around $22.
And like all antibiotics, DoxyPEP is ineffective against viral diseases, likeHIVand monkeypox.
It also wont prevent pregnancy, and isnt a cure for STIs.
Who Is DoxyPEP recommended for?
However, no one, including ciswomen, is exempt from acquiring a prescription.
certified nurse practitioner and director of clinical operations, TBD Health
Some of this studys participants were living with an HIV infection; others were taking preventative medications against HIV.
Every participant had already been diagnosed with an STI within the past year.
Doxycycline produced an overall 65 percent reduction in new STI infections in these populations.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
These studies have produced less promising results, but the reasons why are not clear.
Even though doxycycline is fairly well-studied, its use as an STI preventive is still very new.
If you routinely get tested for STIs, dont stop testing because youve used DoxyPEP.
(Certain strains ofgonorrheaare already antibiotic-resistant.)
Side effects are also possible.
The most common ones are headache, stomachache, and nausea.
Its also worth noting that dairy products and calcium supplements may reduce DoxyPeps effectiveness.
Youll want to go over the other prescriptions and supplements you currently take with your doctor.
Anything that makes sex safer and more joyful is a very good thing.
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