Doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis: a cross-sectional survey on knowledge, attitudes and prescribing practices among Italian dermatologists of sexually transmitted infection centers - PubMed
7 hours ago
- #antibiotic resistance
- #STI prophylaxis
- #doxycycline
- Doxy-PEP (doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis) is known to reduce bacterial STIs in MSM and those with recurrent STIs.
- Italian dermatologists in STI centers were surveyed: 100% knew of Doxy-PEP, with MSM most frequently considered eligible (69.4%).
- Prescription preferences included recent exposure (<72 hours) to chlamydia (58.3%), syphilis (50.0%), gonorrhea (25.0%), and multiple partnerships (55.6%).
- Chemsex was identified as the main risky behavior for Doxy-PEP use (69.4%), but efficacy perceptions varied: 47.2% for chlamydia, 14.3% for syphilis, and 2.8% for gonorrhea.
- Only 19.4% had prescribed Doxy-PEP, with no adverse events reported, but 36.1% observed failures; top concerns were antibiotic resistance (e.g., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, MRSA) and microbiota alterations.
- An increase in Doxy-PEP use is anticipated due to patient demand, community influences, and guidelines, but cautious attitudes prevail regarding efficacy and resistance risks.