Doxy-PEP is a single dose of doxycycline (an antibiotic) taken after sex to reduce the chance of acquiring some bacterial STIs — particularly syphilis, and to a lesser extent chlamydia and, in some studies, gonorrhoea. It’s a relatively new prevention option in Australia, and it isn’t right for everyone.
At Equality Health Darlinghurst, LGBTIQA+ friendly GPs can talk you through whether Doxy-PEP is a good fit for your situation — with bulk billed consultations for all patients with a valid Medicare card, in person across Sydney or by telehealth.
Doxy-PEP stands for doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis. It involves taking 200mg of doxycycline within 72 hours of condomless sex to reduce the risk of acquiring bacterial STIs.
Australian guidance (the ASHM 2023 Consensus Statement) recognises Doxy-PEP as an option to help prevent syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea among gay, bisexual and other
men who have sex with men (and trans women and non-binary people assigned male at birth) who are at higher chance of bacterial STIs.
Doxy-PEP is not suitable for everyone. Your GP will discuss the benefits, possible side effects, the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, and whether it’s right for your circumstances.
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SUPPORTIVE
COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL CARE
PREVENTATIVE SCREENING
SAFE
INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
REPEAT REFERRALS
SUPPORTIVE
COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL CARE
PREVENTATIVE SCREENING
SAFE
INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
REPEAT REFERRALS
SUPPORTIVE
COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL CARE
PREVENTATIVE SCREENING
SAFE
INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
REPEAT REFERRALS
SUPPORTIVE
COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL CARE
PREVENTATIVE SCREENING
SAFE
INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
REPEAT REFERRALS
A clear conversation about whether Doxy-PEP suits you: Your GP will assess your sexual health history, recent STI history, current medications and any allergies. Doxy-PEP isn’t recommended for everyone — and it’s used alongside, not instead of, condoms, STI testing and PrEP where relevant.
A current STI screen: Before starting Doxy-PEP, you’ll be offered a sexual health screen to make sure any current infections are identified and treated.
Your prescription: If Doxy-PEP is appropriate, your GP will issue a prescription with clear instructions on how and when to take it. You only take a dose after sex — not every day.
3-monthly reviews: Anyone using Doxy-PEP should have a quarterly check-in that includes STI screening and a conversation about how things are going. We can do this in person or by telehealth.
Joined-up sexual health care: If you’re on PrEP, your Doxy-PEP review can be combined with your standard PrEP visit — one appointment, both prescriptions.
Our team of LGBTIQA+ health-focused General Practitioners provides compassionate, comprehensive, and culturally competent care to our diverse community. Each of our GPs brings a wealth of experience, specialized knowledge, and a deep passion for serving LGBTIQA+ individuals. Committed to continuous learning and advocacy, our doctors ensure that every patient receives personalized care in a safe and affirming environment. Together, we strive to promote health equity, foster trust, and support the well-being of all our patients
Doxy-PEP is a single 200mg dose of doxycycline taken within 72 hours of condomless sex. Doxycycline is an antibiotic that can help prevent some bacterial STIs from establishing infection after exposure. It is most effective for syphilis, with smaller effects on chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
No. HIV PEP is a separate course of antiretroviral medication taken after potential HIV exposure. Doxy-PEP is an antibiotic and only targets some bacterial STIs. The two are not interchangeable. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, contact a sexual health clinic or your GP urgently.
Doxy-PEP is taken on an as-needed basis after condomless sex — not every day. Your GP will discuss appropriate use and limits with you, and will follow up with regular reviews so your use can be monitored.
Doxycycline can cause nausea, stomach upset, sun sensitivity, and (less commonly) other side effects. Your GP will go through what to watch for and what to do if you experience side effects.
Doxycycline itself is widely available and inexpensive, but Doxy-PEP as a specific indication is an emerging area in Australia. Speak with your GP and pharmacist about pricing — costs are typically low.
No referral needed. You can book directly with one of our GPs online or by phone.
Yes — eligible Medicare patients anywhere in Sydney or Australia can access our bulk billed telehealth Doxy-PEP consults.
