CDC recommends post-sex antibiotic to prevent STIs.

CDC recommends post-sex antibiotic to prevent STIs.

It’s time for an unconventional and game-changing approach to tackling sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in a draft recommendation, has proposed the use of a powerful antibiotic, doxycycline, to prevent the spread of STIs. This approach, known as Doxy-PEP (doxycycline post-exposure), could mark a turning point in the ongoing epidemic of STIs. It’s a refreshing and much-needed breakthrough in the field of STI prevention, as no major new intervention has been introduced in decades.

Dr. Jonathan Mermin, the head of the CDC’s National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, aptly describes this strategy as a game-changer. Doxy-PEP involves taking doxycycline after a potential exposure to an STI, rather than waiting until after a disease is diagnosed. This preventive approach is recommended for gay and bisexual men, other men who have sex with men, and transgender women who have been diagnosed with at least one bacterial STI in the past year, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis. Within 72 hours after oral, vaginal, or anal sex, doctors may consider prescribing a 200 mg dose of doxycycline for these patients.

The CDC’s draft recommendations have been influenced by existing guidance from health departments in California, Michigan, New Mexico, and other agencies. David Harvey, the executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors, welcomes this proposed recommendation, acknowledging the profound impact it could have on the field. The affordability of the pills through public health budgets and insurance coverage would be instrumental in making this preventive measure accessible to those who need it.

Of course, like any medical intervention, there are potential risks and concerns. One prominent concern is whether this approach could lead to antibiotic resistance. Experts have raised this issue at a meeting of the National Association of County and City Health Officials. To address this concern, the CDC plans to monitor for drug resistance and update guidelines as needed. Dr. Mermin emphasizes the importance of ongoing evaluation and monitoring to identify any negative outcomes that might arise.

The CDC is currently seeking feedback and comments on the draft recommendations for 45 days, until November 16th. A final version of the recommendations is expected to be published early next year. While the science behind Doxy-PEP is still evolving, Dr. Mermin believes it is the right step to take at this time. This recommendation has the potential to revolutionize STI prevention and make a significant impact on the ongoing epidemic.

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In the meantime, it’s important to remember that condoms remain the best protection against STIs. While Doxy-PEP offers an additional layer of prevention, safe sex practices, regular testing, and open communication with healthcare providers are essential for overall sexual health and well-being.

Check out our sexual health quiz to learn more about protecting yourself from sexually transmitted diseases.

Sources: – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, draft recommendation, Oct. 2, 2023 – CBS News, Oct. 2, 2023

For more information, visit the World Health Organization’s page on sexually transmitted infections.