Terrence Higgins Trust CEO responds to first clinical guidelines on the use of DoxyPEP

Today (9 June 2025), new national clinical guidelines have been published on the use of DoxyPEP, which is a dose of antibiotics taken after sex that reduces the risk of acquiring syphilis and chlamydia. The guidelines, issued by the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV, make the UK one of the first countries to provide clinical guidance on using DoxyPEP to prevent STIs.

The guidelines primarily recommend DoxyPEP for gay and bisexual men and trans women who are at increased risk of acquiring syphilis, which can cause significant harm in these groups.

The guidelines come as new data from the UK Health Security Agency has shown that syphilis diagnoses in England rose again last year, reaching the highest rates since records began.

Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, said:“This is another brilliant tool for the sexual health toolbox and again Britain leading by example. As syphilis rates soar, we must make use of every prevention tool we have – and that includes DoxyPEP. We simply cannot afford not to.

“These clinical guidelines are a crucial step towards making sure DoxyPEP – which we know is already in use across the UK – is taken properly and safely. Now, we must make sure these guidelines are implemented, so everyone who could benefit from DoxyPEP is able to. 

"Evidence currently shows those who can most benefit will be gay and bisexual men and trans women. It is vital that research continues on the effectiveness of DoxyPEP in preventing both syphilis and chlamydia in other groups, focusing on those most affected by STIs. 

"Get it right and DoxyPEP could play a crucial role in relieving pressure on sexual health services and turning the tide on rising STIs.”