Doxi-Rio Study of Doxycycline to Prevent Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections in Sexual and Gender Minorities Living With or at Risk of HIV in Rio de Janeiro

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis doxy-PEP can help prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infections STIs among sexual and gender minorities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This includes men who have sex with men, transgender women, and travestis living with HIV or using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis PrEP. The study aims to determine if doxy-PEP reduces new STI cases, is safe and well tolerated, is used as recommended, and whether it affects antibiotic resistance or natural bacteria in the body. Participants who decide to use doxy-PEP will take a dose of doxycycline orally within 72 hours after sexual activity, not exceeding one dose per 24 hours and a maximum of three doses per week. After counseling about risks and benefits, participants will be followed for up to 48 weeks with clinic visits approximately every three months. Those who initially decline doxy-PEP may start it later during the study. During visits, participants will be tested for STIs, monitored for side effects, and asked about medication use, sexual health, and well-being. Researchers will collect data on new STI diagnoses, safety, adherence to doxy-PEP, and participants experiences. This information will help decide if doxy-PEP is a practical prevention approach in Brazil and guide future public health strategies.

Doxi-Rio: Study on the Use of Doxycycline to Prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections in Rio de Janeiro