Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (Doxy-PEP) Consent

Purpose:

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that may be prescribed as a form of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to reduce the risk of certain bacterial infections following a potential exposure. This usage may be considered off-label and is not intended to replace other recommended preventive measures or standard care. The decision to use doxycycline for PEP is made after evaluating potential benefits, risks, and available alternative measures.

Nature of Treatment:

Doxycycline is commonly used to treat bacterial infections such as those caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and certain other pathogens. Its use as a prophylactic measure after a possible exposure is based on emerging data and clinical judgment.

While doxycycline has shown effectiveness in preventing certain infections, it is not a guaranteed method of prevention and should not be relied upon as the sole preventive measure.

Potential Benefits:

• May reduce the likelihood of developing certain bacterial infections after a recognized exposure.
• Could serve as an added protective measure when used alongside other recommended preventive steps and follow-up care.

Potential Risks and Side Effects:

Common Side Effects:
Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight), and possible vaginal yeast infections.

Less Common Side Effects:
Headache, dizziness, and less frequently, severe skin reactions or liver dysfunction.

Allergic Reactions:
In rare cases, serious allergic reactions can occur (hives, swelling of the face, throat tightness, difficulty breathing). If these occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Antibiotic Resistance:
Unnecessary or inappropriate use of antibiotics may contribute to antibiotic resistance, reducing the effectiveness of these medications in the future.

Limitations and Alternatives:

• Doxycycline PEP does not protect against all infections, including HIV or non-bacterial pathogens.
• It is not a substitute for established preventive measures such as consistent condom use, vaccination where applicable, prompt testing, or other recommended prophylactic therapies.
• If you experience side effects, or if you have existing health conditions (e.g., liver or kidney disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding), other preventive strategies may be considered.

Follow-Up Care:

• Adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule is critical for the potential prophylactic benefit.
• Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, reporting any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.

Acknowledgment:

By choosing to use doxycycline as PEP, I acknowledge that I have been informed of the potential benefits, risks, side effects, and limitations of this medication. I understand that doxycycline PEP is not guaranteed to prevent infection and that it is considered an adjunct to, not a replacement for, standard preventive methods and clinical follow-up.