Using doxycycline for prophylaxis of bacterial sexually transmitted infections: considerations for the European Union and European Economic Area

The European Network for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) met in Stockholm, Sweden to discuss the use of doxycycline for the prevention of bacterial STIs. The session focused on the efficacy of doxycycline in reducing the incidence of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, as well as the impact on antimicrobial resistance. Presentations and discussions highlighted the increasing rates of STIs among men who have sex with men (MSM) and the potential use of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with doxycycline. Clinical trials showed that doxycycline taken before or after unprotected sexual contact can significantly reduce the risk of STIs. However, there are concerns about the development of antimicrobial resistance and the impact on commensal bacteria. Further research and consideration of the benefits and harms of doxycycline prophylaxis are needed in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) context.