How to Get DoxyPEP - Where Can I Buy Doxycycline Online?

1. If you are already a client of PULSE CLINIC, you can ask our doctors about starting DoxyPEP immediately.
2. You can get doxycycline online from PULSE Pharmacy. Worldwide & discreet delivery available. 
3. If you’re not an existing client of PULSE Clinic, you have a few options.
   • Visit PULSE CLINIC anywhere in Thailand (Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket), Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia (Bukit Bintang, Bangsar), and the Philippines (Manila)
   • Ask your primary care provider or sexual health care provider about DoxyPEP and if they can provide a prescription. If they don’t know about DoxyPEP, ask them to visit this webpage for more information.

What is Doxycycline?

Doxycycline, a member of the tetracycline antibiotic family, has long been recognised for its efficacy in treating various bacterial infections. From common ailments like acne to more severe conditions such as pneumonia and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), doxycycline continues to be a choice for most healthcare professionals.

This article delves into the multifaceted nature of doxycycline, its uses, precautions, recent developments, and the ongoing research that may reshape its role in preventing STIs.

DoxyPEP: Doxycycline for STI Prevention

Doxycycline, when used as DoxyPEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), has been proven to significantly reduce the risk of bacterial STIs, such as syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, especially in gay and bisexual men, and transgender women who are at higher risk of these infections.

Doxy PEP represents the first new STI prevention tool in decades. This STI prevention method is an effective option for individuals seeking to protect their sexual health. Discover how DoxyPEP can help prevent the transmission of bacterial STIs in high-risk communities and support healthier sexual practices.

Who Should Use DoxyPEP?

DoxyPEP might be right for you if:

• You were assigned male at birth and are at least 12 years old.
• You were diagnosed with a bacterial STI (such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis) in the past 12 months.
• You’ve had condomless oral and/or anal sex with at least one individual assigned male at birth in the last 12 months.

While research shows that DoxyPEP is most effective for those meeting these criteria, individuals who haven’t had a recent STI or were assigned female at birth may still be interested in using DoxyPEP for STI prevention. If you think DoxyPEP could benefit you, we recommend discussing it with your PULSE Clinic provider to explore whether it’s a suitable option for your sexual health.

How to Take DoxyPEP

 For effective use of DoxyPEP after a condomless sexual encounter:

• Take 2 tablets (200 mg) of Doxycycline within 3 days (72 hours).
• Only take one dose per day (no more than 200 mg in 24 hours).

Important Tips When Using DoxyPEP

• For best results, take it within 24 hours, similar to a morning-after pill.
• While it's safe to take daily, avoid exceeding 200 mg in one day.
• Take with 8 oz of water and food to minimize potential side effects like nausea or headaches.
• Doxycycline may increase sensitivity to the sun, so wear sunscreen or protective clothing when outdoors for extended periods.

Can You Take PrEP and DoxyPEP Together?

Yes, it is safe to take both PrEP for HIV prevention and DoxyPEP for STI prevention at the same time. While DoxyPEP isn't 100% effective, recent studies show that it can reduce your risk of contracting syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea by approximately 60%.

• This treatment is relatively new, and ongoing research is exploring its impact on "good" gut bacteria, skin bacteria (like staph), and the potential for resistance to STIs such as gonorrhea.
• Doxycycline, the medication used in DoxyPEP, has been a trusted, low-cost antibiotic with a strong safety profile and mild side effects for decades.
• Unlike gonorrhea, which may develop resistance, chlamydia and syphilis have not shown any resistance to doxycycline, even after years of widespread use.

Doxycycline's Applications

Doxycycline is a highly effective antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. By stopping the growth and spread of bacteria, it helps your body fight infections efficiently. Doxycycline is available by prescription in different forms, including capsules and tablets. 

Antibiotic Powerhouse

Doxycycline belongs to the tetracycline class and is renowned for its broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, curbing the growth and spread of various bacteria.

Common Infections

Widely prescribed for common infections like acne, doxycycline's anti-inflammatory properties make it practical for managing skin conditions.

Respiratory Infections

Pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections often succumb to doxycycline's antimicrobial prowess.

STI Treatment

Doxycrucial in the management of sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis, and other sexually transmitted bacterial infections.

DoxyPEP

Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, abbreviated as DoxyPEP, has shown significant success in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections, particularly in high-risk populations.

Recent Developments and Emerging Roles

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (DoxyPEP)

In a ground-breaking move, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) proposed guidelines for using doxycycline as post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent bacterial STIs. The guidelines focus on specific at-risk groups, indicating a paradigm shift in STI prevention strategies. 

DoxyPEP Research Insights

According to the DoxyPEP trial and other clinical trials, doxycycline has shown promise. It lowers the risk of chlamydia and syphilis by a significant amount, especially in people who are taking PrEP for HIV.

Limitations and Concerns

Despite the optimism surrounding DoxyPEP, concerns about antibiotic resistance and potential disruptions to the microbiome warrant careful monitoring and further research. 

Precautions and Guidelines for Use

Dosage and Administration

Proper administration with or after food and adherence to the entire course are crucial to preventing incomplete treatment and the development of antibiotic resistance.

Precautions for Specific Groups

Special considerations for children under 8, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with underlying medical conditions underscore the importance of tailored healthcare advice.

Interactions and Side Effects

Cautionary notes about potential interactions with other medications, dietary restrictions, and possible side effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances and photosensitivity.

What Dietary or Medicinal Precautions Should Be Observed While Using DoxyPEP?

Refrain from consuming doxycycline concurrently with milk, dairy products, or antacids containing bismuth, iron, zinc, magnesium, aluminium, or calcium. It is advisable to take these substances at least 2 hours before or 1 hour after doxycycline.

Notify your healthcare provider if you are taking isotretinoin (a medication for acne) or acitretin (used for psoriasis). Combining doxycycline with these drugs may elevate the risk of heightened pressure in the head, leading to symptoms like headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

Additionally, be aware that the effectiveness of birth control pills may be diminished when taken concurrently with doxycycline. Alternative forms of contraception should be considered while using this medication.

What are the Side Effects of Doxycycline?

Doxycycline, like any medication, can cause side effects. It's important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Below is a comprehensive list of potential side effects associated with doxycycline:

Common Side Effects:

Gastrointestinal Disturbances

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhoea 
• Photosensitivity: 
• Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, making sunburn more likely 

Vaginal fungal infection:

• Itching 
• Burning sensation in the vaginal area 
• Whitish-grey, thick vaginal discharge (especially with long-term use) 

Rare but Serious Side Effects (Require Immediate Medical Attention)

Allergic Reactions:

• Swelling of face, eyes, lips, or tongue 
• Difficulty in breathing 
• Itchy skin rashes over the entire body 

Liver Problems:

• Dark urine 
• Fatigue 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

Gastrointestinal Issues:

• Persistent or severe diarrhea 
• Stomach pain 
• Blood or pus in the stool 

Vision and Headache:

• Changes in sight 
• Severe headaches 

Other Considerations:

Tooth discoloration (in children under 8 years old): Long-term use of doxycycline in young children may cause permanent changes in tooth colour.

NOTE:

It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional if any side effects persist or worsen or if there are concerns about potential adverse reactions. Additionally, this list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to the medication may vary. Always follow your doctor's guidance and report any unusual symptoms promptly.