Two Democrats are trying to make this STI medication free

Reps. Robert Garcia (D-CA) and Barbara Lee (D-CA) sent a letter last week asking the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) to make the STI treatment antibiotic doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy PEP) free on insurance plans.

“Surging STIs are disproportionately impacting LGBTQ+ individuals. We must ensure that these folks have access to doxy PEP, a critical medication that can save lives and prevent these kinds of infections. By making doxy PEP coverage free by insurers, we can prevent infections and stop the spread of disease for those most vulnerable,” said Garcia in a statement.

Related:

Syphilis rates continue to rise in the U.S. as experts warn of “out-of-control” STI crisis

Experts called on the Biden administration to provide increased funding for prevention and treatment efforts.

They request that doxy PEP be given the same ranking as the HIV treatment pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), that of an A-grade recommendation. According to the letter, this led to PrEP being made essentially free for Americans on insurance plans, contributing significantly to a reduction in HIV rates.

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They also request a formal recommendation from USPSTF as per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)’s prior actions in trying to educate at-risk populations about the costs and benefits of doxy PEP.

Doxy PEP is a morning-after pill for STIs. It’s generally taken within 24 hours of sex, although the sooner the better, and can play a significant role in reducing infections. It is primarily used to reduce the likelihood of syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

Lee said in a statement, “As transmission rates for sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis continue to increase, it’s more important now than ever that preventative medicines are covered by insurance. Widespread use and education about doxy PEP could prevent thousands of bacterial STI cases every year. However, in order to get this treatment to those who need it most, it’s imperative that doxy PEP is covered by insurance plans with no cost to patients. I am proud to stand with my colleagues to urge USTPF to consider making this crucial recommendation.”

According to a CDC report, “200 mg of doxycycline taken within 72 hours after sex has been shown to reduce syphilis and chlamydia infections by >70% and gonococcal infections by approximately 50%.” A small literature review by the Minnesota Department of Health also supports its strong efficacy, with doxy PEP having a 65% relative risk reduction.

Governing medical bodies in the U.S. strongly recommend those interested in the medication should consult their doctor for more information on if it’s right for them. The majority of side effects are minor and go away after ceasing the medication.

Costs for doxy PEP when uninsured range from $15 to $25; however, prices vary depending on location and dosage. Certain clinics offer it discounted or free, however.

David C. Harvey, executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors, said in a statement, “Doxy PEP is the most significant medical advancement in STI prevention in decades. Reducing barriers to helping people access doxy PEP and providing healthcare providers with the guidance and encouragement they need to implement doxy PEP in accordance with the new CDC guidelines will be crucial in helping us use doxy PEP to address our out-of-control STI epidemic.”

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