Taking antibiotics like doxycycline can protect you from STIs, but may also come with some side effects.
From mild nausea to rare but serious issues, knowing what to expect from DoxyPEP can help you catch side effects early and avoid surprises. If you’re using it as post-exposure protection, managing side effects well means you’re more likely to take it consistently—and get the protection it’s meant to provide.
So, what does DoxyPEP do in your body, and how can you stay one step ahead of the side effects? As a certified sex therapist and medical doctor, I’ll explain it all, plus share tips I give my patients to stay healthy, feel good, and make the most of this powerful prevention tool.
Want to protect your sexual health without in-person doctor visits or long pharmacy lines? With B Brand, you can get doxycycline shipped directly to your door—no appointment or prescription necessary. Get your DoxyPEP online prescription today and stay prepared for anything.
What Is DoxyPEP and How Does It Work?
DoxyPEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) is a broad-spectrum tetracycline antibiotic taken shortly after potential exposure to prevent certain bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea and chlamydia.
It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria rather than killing them instantly. Typically, doxycycline is prescribed in a 200 mg oral dose, taken within 72 hours of exposure; however, we usually recommend taking it within 24 hours for optimal effectiveness.
Common Side Effects of DoxyPEP
You may experience some of the following side effects while taking DoxyPEP:
Photosensitivity
Nausea or vomiting
Abdominal cramps
Diarrhea
Yeast infections
Rare or Serious Side Effects
There are also some rare but more serious side effects to watch out for:
Headache or dizziness
Elevated liver enzymes
Rare vision changes
Intracranial hypertension (pressure-related headaches)
If you experience any of these, contact your doctor immediately.
How to Minimize DoxyPEP Side Effects
Here are some tips to reduce discomfort when taking DoxyPEP:
Drink water with your dose
Take it with food
Sit upright for 30 minutes after taking it
Avoid sun exposure
Avoid dairy products, antacids, and supplements
If taking supplements, space them at least 2 hours apart
Do not take DoxyPEP if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or allergic to tetracyclines.
Risks of Long-Term DoxyPEP Use
Using DoxyPEP frequently or long-term may carry the following risks:
Antibiotic resistance (especially with gonorrhea)
Disruption of the gut microbiome
GI issues or secondary infections
Increased risk of yeast infections
Liver and kidney strain
Ongoing photosensitivity
DoxyPEP can be a powerful STI prevention tool, but should be used under medical supervision, especially with frequent use. Regular monitoring and STI testing are essential.
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
Severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing
Severe sunburn or skin sensitivity
Recurrent yeast infections
Unusual fatigue, jaundice, or dark-colored urine
Stay Safe on Your Terms: Get DoxyPEP Online from B Brand
Your sexual health shouldn’t wait for an appointment. With B Brand, you can order DoxyPEP quickly and discreetly online—no clinic visits, no pharmacy lines, just fast protection whenever you need it.
Get DoxyPEP online today and stay ready for whatever comes your way.
FAQs
What is B Brand?
B Brand is a telehealth company focused on delivering premium quality sexual health products, paired with education and resources to help people make informed decisions. We are your one-stop destination for all your intimate health needs.
How do B Brand consultations work?
To complete a B Brand consultation, all you need to do is answer our quick online medical questions. Your answers are then reviewed by our US medical team, who will decide if you are eligible for treatment, and which medication is best for you.
What is doxy-PEP?
Doxy-PEP means taking the antibiotic doxycycline after sex, to prevent getting an STI. It is like a morning-after pill but for STIs. Taking doxy-PEP reduces your chance of acquiring syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia by about two-thirds.
When should I take doxy-PEP?
Two 100 mg pills of doxycycline should be taken ideally within 24 hours but no later than 72 hours after condomless sex. Condomless sex means oral, anal or vaginal/front-hole sex where a condom isn’t used for the entire time.
What about when I have sex again?
If you have sex again within 24 hours of taking doxycycline, take another dose 24 hours after your last dose. You can take doxycycline as often as every day when you are having condomless sex but don’t take more than 200 mg (two 100 mg pills) every 24 hours.
How should I take doxy-PEP?
• Take doxycycline with plenty of water or something else to drink so that it does not get stuck when you swallow. If your stomach is upset by doxycycline, taking it with food may help.
• Some people are more sensitive to the sun when they take doxycycline, so wear sunscreen.
• Please do not share doxycycline with others.
• Avoid dairy products, calcium, antacids, or multivitamins 2 hours before after taking doxycycline
