DoxyPEP, or Doxycycline as Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a medication that reduces syphilis infections (and may also help to reduce chlamydia infections).
It is available to those who meet the criteria.
On this page you will find information on:
Who this service is for
DoxyPEP is offered to eligible gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, as well as transgender women, who:
- have had a bacterial STI in the previous 12 months
- have had multiple sexual partners in the previous 3 months
DoxyPEP: Everything you need to know [Video]
The video below explains everything you need to know about DoxyPEP including what it does, who it’s for, and how to get it.
You can also find out more about DoxyPEP on NHS inform.
Please note: DoxyPEP is now no longer invitation-only, and you can book an appointment if you meet the criteria.
What DoxyPEP does
- DoxyPEP is an antibiotic that protects against bacterial STIs
- It is prescribed to protect against syphilis, but it also offers protection from chlamydia
- It should be taken within 72 hours after sex
- Studies have shown it is around 75-80% effective at reducing these infections
What DoxyPEP doesn’t do
- It’s important to note that DoxyPEP doesn’t protect you from HIV. For this, you may be interested in PrEP.
- DoxyPEP also does not offer suitable protection from gonorrhea, though the men-b vaccine may be available to you.
- Condoms are the only way to protect against all STIs. You can pick these up for free across Greater Glasgow & Clyde.
- Because DoxyPEP is not 100% effective, and does not protect against all infections, testing regularly for STIs is still encouraged.
How to make an appointment
DoxyPEP appointments are only available for people who:
- are starting DoxyPEP for the first time; or
- do not attend Sandyford HIV PrEP appointments (please discuss this at your next PrEP appointment instead)
If you think you may be eligible for, or could benefit from, DoxyPEP, you can book an appointment online. Once you book, your appointment will take place over the phone.
If you have accessibility requirements, such as needing a BSL or language interpreter, please don’t book online and call 0141 211 8130 to arrange a longer appointment to suit your needs.
Please note:
- A limited number of telephone appointments are available each week. If no appointments are available when you check, please try again at a later date.
- If you attend Sandyford HIV PrEP services and have already been prescribed DoxyPEP by Sandyford, you do not need to book a separate DoxyPEP appointment. You can request a further supply of DoxyPEP at your next routine PrEP appointment.
What to expect
During your appointment
Your appointment space
DoxyPEP appointments are all done over the phone.
During the appointment
A doctor or nurse will call you to discuss DoxyPEP and help you decide whether this is the correct thing for you.
If wishing to commence DoxyPEP, a supply will be prepared for you to collect.
After your appointment
Once agreed during your appointment, you can collect your first supply of DoxyPEP from Sandyford Central.
You will be advised how you can access your next supply of DoxyPEP during your initial telephone appointment.
Further information on DoxyPEP
You may find the below resources helpful: