The U.S. is currently experiencing a nationwide shortage of injectable penicillin—also known as Bicillin— the first-line treatment for syphilis. According to the California Department of Health and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the shortage is due to “increased demand and limited manufacturing capacity.” We are currently being told that the shortage is likely to last until the second quarter of 2024.
This is very concerning given the rates of syphilis transmission in California and nationwide. There is an alternative oral medication that can be used to treat syphilis, but it requires two doses per day over several weeks, which can make it difficult for people to complete the full course of treatment.
Fortunately, there are proactive steps people can take to lower their risk of syphilis, including condom use and DoxyPEP. DoxyPEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) can help prevent syphilis infection and the need for treatment.
DoxyPEP FAQs
What is DoxyPEP?
DoxyPEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) is the use of the antibiotic doxycycline to prevent gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis following a possible STI exposure. When taken within 72 hours after a condomless sexual encounter (ideally within 24 hours), DoxyPEP has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of STIs—including syphilis by up to 87%.
Who qualifies for DoxyPEP?
Men who have sex with men and transgender women who have had at least one STI or report condomless sex with more than one partner in the past year. Doxycycline and the medical visit should be covered by insurance. For patients who do not have insurance, we have a sliding scale payment option and can help you get the medication at a lowered cost through our pharmacy.
How can I get DoxyPEP?
Starting DoxyPEP requires a visit with a medical provider and a baseline set of STI labs. To learn more about DoxyPEP, you can make an appointment with your primary care provider at the Center or schedule a visit at our sexual health clinics in Hollywood or West Hollywood. For more information or to schedule, call 323-993-7500, option 2.
Can I use DoxyPEP in place of condoms or other safer sex practices?
DoxyPEP is just one option for lowering the risk of STIs and can work in conjunction with other safer sex practices. Keep in mind, DoxyPEP does not prevent HIV. Talk to your medical provider about HIV PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) or PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). It’s very important to get tested before starting DoxyPEP and every 3 months thereafter.
Is there any medical concern about using DoxyPEP repeatedly?
Doxycycline has a long safety history when used for extended periods of time, but studies regarding possible antibiotic resistance are ongoing. Importantly, the doxycycline prescribed for PEP should only be taken after unprotected sexual encounters and not to treat other undiagnosed symptoms.
What are the side effects for DoxyPEP?
Doxycycline can cause upset stomach and diarrhea, though taking the medication with food can help. Regular use can also increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, so be sure to wear sunscreen.
Make an Appointment
For more information about DoxyPEP or to schedule an appointment, call 323-993-7500, option 2.
