DoxyPEP

What Is DoxyPEP?

DoxyPEP stands for doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis. DoxyPEP involves taking an antibiotic after sex to protect against some bacterial sexually-transmitted infections, such as syphilis and chlamydia. DoxyPEP is taken as a pill within 24 hours, but no later than 72 hours, of having condomless oral, anal or vaginal sex. 

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Who Is DoxyPEP For?

Research suggests that DoxyPEP is most effective for men who have sex with men and trans women. DoxyPEP may be right for you if you have:

• Had a bacterial STI in the past year or have a history of syphilis infection
• Had sexual contact with more than 1 or multiple cis men and/or trans women in the past year

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How To Access DoxyPEP

You’ll need a prescription for doxycycline from your family doctor or healthcare provider. Doxycycline is available at pharmacies and covered by all insurance plans. It’s important to know that DoxyPEP is currently prescribed off-label for STI prevention. Some physicians may be unfamiliar with DoxyPEP to prevent STIs. Talk to your healthcare provider about DoxyPEP as an option.

DoxyPEP is covered by the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program, which you may be covered by if you are enrolled in Ontario Works (OW), the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), the Trillium Drug Program, or Home or Community Care. DoxyPEP is also covered if you are:

• 24 years old or younger, have a valid OHIP health card, and do not have private insurance; or
• Over the age of 65 years old and have a valid OHIP card.

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Resources

• Doxycycline (catie.ca)‍
• Doxycycline PEP for Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (GMSH.ca)