A new public-health approach aims to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) using antibiotics instead of just treating them. Research on using the antibiotic doxycycline as post-exposure prophylaxis (doxyPEP) to reduce the risk of bacterial STIs in gay and bisexual men and transgender women has shown promise. However, concerns about drug-resistant infections have also been raised. The STI epidemic in the US has been on the rise, with syphilis cases increasing among pregnant women. Doxycycline has been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for use after sex to lower the risk of chlamydia and syphilis by over 70% and gonorrhea by about 50%.
New studies on using doxycycline as pre-exposure prophylaxis (doxyPrEP) have shown positive results among HIV-positive gay and bisexual men and female sex workers. These studies have found that taking doxycycline daily may lower the risk of STIs and provide an optimal balance of risks versus benefits for some individuals. The concern about promoting drug-resistant infections is being addressed with ongoing research.
Choice in STI prevention tools is important, as different approaches may work better for different individuals. Some may prefer taking doxycycline daily as PrEP, while others may find post-exposure prophylaxis more suitable. Research is ongoing to further understand the impact of these approaches on preventing STIs and drug resistance. Ultimately, the goal is to provide individuals with options that best fit their needs for STI prevention.
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