Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis: Weekly versus event-driven Intake for STI prevention among MSM and TGW taking PrEP (Doxy-WISE study)
This research is called the Doxy-WISE study. It focuses on finding the best way to use an antibiotic called Doxycycline to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), specifically gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis. The study is for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) who are already taking PrEP to prevent HIV. Researchers want to see if taking Doxycycline once a week works better or the same as taking it only after unprotected sex. They will compare how many new infections occur in both groups. The study also looks at how Doxycycline might affect other bacteria in the body, how people feel about using it, and the potential costs involved.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into whether a common antibiotic, Doxycycline, can be used to prevent certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You might have heard of Doxycycline as it's used for various infections, but here, researchers are exploring its use as a preventative measure. The study is specifically for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) who are already taking PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) to prevent HIV.
The main idea is to compare two different ways of taking Doxycycline to see which is more effective at stopping new infections. One group of participants will take Doxycycline once a week, while another group will take it only after they've had sex that could put them at risk of an STI. The researchers will then carefully count how many cases of gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis occur in each group to see if one method works better than the other.
Beyond just preventing infections, the study will also look at other important things. For example, it will check if taking Doxycycline in these ways affects other types of bacteria in the body, which is important for understanding antibiotic resistance. Researchers will also ask participants about their experiences, preferences, and how easy or difficult they found it to take the medication. Finally, they'll look at the cost-effectiveness, meaning if this way of preventing STIs makes good financial sense for healthcare services in the long run.
Key takeaways
- This study investigates Doxycycline to prevent STIs.
- It's for men who have sex with men and transgender women already on PrEP.
- It compares taking Doxycycline weekly versus after sex.
- Focuses on preventing gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis.
- Also looks at effects on other bacteria and patient experience.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, participants generally need to be 18 years old or older. The study is specifically looking for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW).
Participants must also already be taking PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), which is a medicine used to prevent HIV. This is important because the study builds upon the existing PrEP use in this community.
Before you can take part, the study team will ask you some health questions and do some checks to make sure the study is a safe and suitable option for you. This helps ensure everyone involved is appropriate for the research.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you identify as a man who has sex with men or a transgender woman?
- Are you currently taking PrEP for HIV prevention?
- Are you willing to attend regular clinic appointments for check-ups and tests?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will be assigned to one of two groups: either taking Doxycycline once a week, or taking it only after you've had sex. You will receive the study medication, which is either Doxycycline Sandoz 100 mg tablets or Doxycycline EG 200 mg tablets, depending on the dosage needed.
Taking part will involve regular visits to the clinic for check-ups. During these visits, you will have tests to see if you have developed any STIs (gonorrhoea, chlamydia, or syphilis). The study team will also monitor your overall health and ask you about your experiences with the medication and the study.
The total duration of your involvement in the study will be decided by the researchers and explained to you in detail before you agree to participate. This will include how long you need to take the medication and how often you'll have follow-up appointments.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
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Common questions
What is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It's a medicine that people at high risk of getting HIV take to prevent HIV infection.
What STIs is this study trying to prevent?
The study is mainly focused on preventing gonorrhoea (NG), chlamydia (CT), and syphilis (TP) infections.
Will I know which group I'm in?
The study design usually means you will know whether you are taking Doxycycline weekly or after sex, but the full details will be explained by the study team.
What kind of medication will I take?
You'll be taking Doxycycline, which is an antibiotic. The specific brands mentioned are Doxycycline Sandoz 100 mg or Doxycycline EG 200 mg tablets.
Is this study safe?
All clinical trials go through strict ethical and safety checks. The study team will explain all known risks and benefits before you decide to participate, and your health will be monitored throughout.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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