Dosage schedule
200 mg (two capsules), taken within 72 hours of potential exposure, ideally within 24 hours.
Length of Treatment
Single dose of two capsules taken once. No daily dosing.
Side effects
Nausea, stomach upset, and increased sun sensitivity. Rarely, rashes or swallowing difficulties occur.
Further Actions
Continue routine STI testing and other prevention methods as advised.
Locations
Fees
£30
Journey Overview
#1 Medication Questionnaire & Initial Assessment
As part of the initial process, patients must complete our medications questionnaire. This serves as an initial clinical assessment and allows us to review the timing of the exposure, relevant medical history, current medications, and any known allergies.
STI testing via Drop & Go may be offered at this stage but is not mandatory. The information provided helps determine whether DoxyPEP may be appropriate and whether any further review is required.
#2 Clinician Review & Consultation (If Appropriate)
If further clarification or assessment is required, a remote consultation by telephone will be arranged. During this review, the clinician will:
• Confirm whether DoxyPEP is safe and suitable for you
• Discuss the exposure in more detail
• Assess whether HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEPSE) or other prevention options are needed
Not all patients will require a telephone consultation, and many can proceed based on questionnaire review alone.
#3 Dispense Medications
Once approved, DoxyPEP is supplied as a single 200 mg dose of doxycycline, taken as two capsules together. The medication may be:
• Collected from the clinic, or
• Sent by post, depending on timing and preference
Clear instructions will be provided on how to take the medication safely.
#4 Further Care
Further care includes STI testing via Drop & Go, either if this was not completed earlier or as part of routine follow-up after the appropriate window period.
Patients should arrange a review if any symptoms develop, such as discharge, sores, or pain, as DoxyPEP does not provide complete protection and does not treat established infections.
If DoxyPEP is required repeatedly, our Specialists may discuss long-term prevention strategies, including regular screening and HIV prevention options, to support ongoing sexual health.
Patient Feedback
Eligibility
Best For
Potential exposure to chlamydia or syphilis within 72 hours
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
Generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult clinician for safe alternative options.
Menstruation
Safe to use during menstruation.
Prior/Repeat Use
Not intended for frequent or routine use. Repeat requests require a clinical review to address antibiotic resistance.
Do NOT use if
Allergic to tetracyclines, significant renal or hepatic disease
Avoid/Discuss if
Symptomatic, or past 72 hours since exposure
FAQs
DoxyPEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a single preventive dose of doxycycline (200 mg) taken after sex to reduce the risk of certain bacterial STIs, mainly chlamydia and syphilis. It is not reliable for preventing gonorrhoea.
It must be taken within 72 hours of exposure, ideally within 24 hours. A clinical review is required before prescribing.
DoxyPEP can reduce the risk of:
• Chlamydia and syphilis by around 70–80% in studied groups
• Gonorrhoea: effectiveness is limited due to antibiotic resistance
It does not protect against HIV, viral STIs, or pregnancy.
• Take two capsules together (200 mg total)
• Take with food and a full glass of water
• Stay upright for at least 30 minutes
• Take as soon as possible after sex (within 72 hours maximum)
Avoid strong sun exposure for a few days.
Most people tolerate a single dose well. Possible side effects include:
• Mild nausea or indigestion
• Throat or stomach irritation
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
Seek medical advice if you develop a severe rash, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain.
DoxyPEP is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If this applies to you, alternative sexual health support and testing will be discussed instead.
No. DoxyPEP is an extra layer of protection, not a replacement for:
• Condoms
• Regular STI testing
• HIV prevention strategies
Follow-up testing is still essential.
Yes. A full STI screen is recommended 2–6 weeks after exposure, even if you feel well. If symptoms appear at any point, book a review immediately.
If symptoms such as discharge, pain, sores, or irritation appear:
• Contact our Specialists for assessment
• Avoid sexual contact
• Arrange a full STI screen
DoxyPEP does not treat active infections and may mask symptoms.
DoxyPEP is an individual preventive treatment. Your partner would need their own clinical assessment to determine whether it is appropriate for them.
If a test later comes back positive, partner notification and treatment are recommended.
This is your choice, but open communication about sexual health is encouraged. DoxyPEP only protects you, not your partner, and does not remove the need for testing.
No. DoxyPEP is:
• Prescription-only
• Not intended for frequent or routine use
• Overuse may contribute to antibiotic resistance
It should only be taken after a clinical review.
Menopause does not reduce how DoxyPEP works. However, vaginal dryness or thinning may increase infection risk, so lubrication and regular testing remain important. There are no known interactions with HRT.
No. DoxyPEP does not protect against HIV. If HIV exposure is a concern, PEPSE may be needed and should be assessed urgently.
Next Steps
In Clinic
Same day test results +/- medications available for most infections.
Online
Start, continue or finish your care online.
Not sure what you need? Contact us here.
Page last reviewed by Aaron Williams 17 October 2023 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.