HIV / STI Prophylaxis
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Note that the prices indicated in this page are all inclusive of tax.
Immediate in-hospital prescription by our certified doctor is available throughout our open hours.
Those purchasing our PrEPcan contact us 24/7 via LINE with any questions about PrEP
We also offer telemedicine consultations and delivery service of PrEP, PEP and other medications.
Below are the consultation dates for Dr. Shiojiri, director of our partnered clinic.
Consultations for HIV and STI prevention medications are available every day.
Saturday, September 27
Sunday, September 28
Saturday, October 18
Sunday, October 19
HIV Prevention Medicine (PrEP)
HIV/AIDS can be prevented by oral medications. The method of taking it before the potential exposure is called PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), and the method of taking it after is PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis).
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is the use of an HIV-prevention medication before a potential exposure to HIV such as sexual activities. This approach is now even endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “One can take control of their own protection unlike condoms.” We offer a few kinds of generic PrEP at an affordable price together with follow-up medical check-ups, so please feel free to contact us!
Patients who purchase PrEP at our clinic can contact us 24/7 via LINE with any questions about PrEP interactions with other medications, how to take PrEP, and more. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Recommended for those:
– Engaging in sex without proper protection
– Having anal intercourse
– Having an HIV-positive partner
– Engaging in sexual contact with multiple partners
– Working in the sex industry
We offer exclusive services for those working in the adult entertainment and AV industries. For details, please see below.
Price of PrEP
For those who use it on demand, it is recommended to start with a one-month package (30 tablets) or a three-month package (90 tablets). All the packages include the price of blood tests necessary for the use and continuation of PrEP.
Always ensure that you undergo appropriate tests when starting and/or continuing PrEP. Prescriptions from facilities that do not conduct various tests, or personal imports without testing, carry the significant risk of HIV resistance and worsening of hepatitis B.
[Price] = [Consultation Fee] + [Package Price] + [Optional Fees]
– Consultation Fee: First visit 2,500 JPY, Follow-up 1,000 JPY
– A doctor’s consultation is required for PrEP prescriptions.
Price: 10,000 JPY
Including:
– 1 bottle of PrEP (30 tablets), Descovy
– HIV rapid test
– Hepatitis B rapid test
– Syphilis test (results notified via e-mail)
– Renal function test (results notified via e-mail)
Price: 20,000 JPY
Including:
– 3 bottles of PrEP (90 tablets), Descovy
– HIV rapid test
– Hepatitis B rapid test
– Syphilis test (results notified via e-mail)
– Renal function test (results notified via e-mail)
Price: 37,000 JPY
Including:
– 6 bottles of PrEP (180 tablets), Descovy
– HIV rapid test
– Hepatitis B rapid test
– Syphilis test (results notified via e-mail)
– Renal function test (results notified via e-mail)
– Extra tests to take in 3 months (HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis)
For those who purchase a 6-month package and do not wish to revisit for testing after 3 months, we can provide a self-test kit.
Those who have been tested for HIV and Hepatitis B within a week can be prescribed PrEP at the following prices.
Make sure to bring your test results.
When starting or continuing PrEP, always ensure to undergo appropriate testing. Prescriptions or personal imports without undergoing the necessary tests at facilities can be dangerous, posing a risk of HIV resistance and worsening of Hepatitis B.
Tests conducted outside our clinic are also eligible.
For those using the regular testing 3-package, prescription is possible on the day of testing as it includes HIV and Hepatitis B tests.
Price: 7,000 JPY
Only for those who bring their test results for HIV and Hepatitis B conducted within a week
Included:
– 1 bottle of PrEP (30 pills) Descovy
– (Optional) Kidney function test (by email): Additional 500 JPY
Price: 16,000 JPY
Only for those who bring their test results for HIV and Hepatitis B conducted within a week
Included:
– 3 bottles of PrEP (90 pills) Descovy
– (Optional) Kidney function test (by email): Additional 500 JPY
For those who import PrEP on their own, we have a package of routine check-ups.
for those importing PrEP on their own
Price: 5,000 JPY
Including:
– HIV rapid test
– Hepatitis B rapid test
– Syphilis test (results notified via e-mail)
– Renal function test (results notified via e-mail)
Patients who purchase PrEP at our clinic can contact us 24/7 via LINE with any questions about PrEP interactions with other medications, how to take PrEP, and more. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
PrEP is nothing more than an HIV prevention measure. Since it does not have a preventive effect against STIs other than HIV, it is recommended to take STI tests regularly. Infection with syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia makes you more vulnerable to HIV. This is because inflammation of the mucous membranes caused by infection to the urethra, vagina, oral cavity or anus allows HIV to penetrate where the mucosal barrier is weak.
We offer syphilis tests for free and gonorrhea and chlamydia tests at a special price to those purchasing PrEP or PEP for the purpose of comprehensively reducing the risk of HIV infection.
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia (genitals, throat, anus): 3,000 JPY (20,000 JPY)
Discharge test (vaginal candida, vaginal trichomonas and bacterial vaginosis): 3,000 JPY (4,500 JPY)
For patients using PrEP who wish to start Doxy-PEP, same-day prescription is available by adding the gonorrhea and chlamydia test (genital, throat and rectal). This option also offers a 2,000 JPY discount compared to the standard price.
To start PrEP
Japanese guideline requires prior test for HIV, hepatitis B, kidney function and more when starting PrEP medication. (For more information, please see the Reference written in Japanese language.)
In starting PrEP, we perform rapid tests for HIV and hepatitis B, as well as tests for kidney function and quantitative syphilis.
Always ensure that you undergo appropriate tests when starting and/or continuing PrEP. Prescriptions from facilities that do not conduct various tests, or personal imports without testing, carry the significant risk of HIV resistance and worsening of hepatitis B.
Our clinic is the only one in Kansai region recognized by PrEP in Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s AIDS Policy Research Project.
You may not use PrEP. After the confirmed diagnosis for HIV, treatment for HIV is necessary.
PrEP can be used, but the on-demand medication (method of using only right before and after sexual intercourse) is not available. Please consult our doctor for details.
PrEP is available while being treated with other STIs. Please ask your doctor for more detail.
Special discounted testing for syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other STIs is available at the start and after completing PEP.
We offer the following discounted tests exclusively to those who purchase a PEP package, valid for one month from the date of purchase.
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia (genitals, throat, anus): 3,000 JPY (20,000 JPY)
Discharge test (vaginal candida, vaginal trichomonas and bacterial vaginosis): 3,000 JPY (4,500 JPY)
How to take PrEP
There are 2 ways to take PrEP. If you have any questions about how to take it, please consult doctors.
This is a method of taking 1 tablet once a day at your own set time regardless of sexual intercourse. This is a proven method with a preventive effect of over 99% as well as the established safety.
This method involves taking medication before and after sexual activity. It has been reported to provide 86% effectiveness in HIV prevention.
Take 2 tablets 2 to 24 hours before intercourse, then take 1 tablet 24 hours later, followed by another 1 tablet 24 hours after that.
Please ensure the timing of the doses is based on the time you take the first 2 tablets.
If sexual activity continues over multiple days: Continue taking 1 tablet every 24 hours, and after the last day of sexual activity, take 1 tablet daily for 2 additional days.
The second dose should be taken 24 hours after the first dose, not 24 hours after intercourse.
If on-demand PrEP is taken incorrectly (e.g., taking only 1 tablet instead of 2 for the first dose, missing one of the doses after intercourse), it may not be effective in preventing HIV. If you are unsure, please contact us via Official LINE.
We recommend daily PrEP for most patients.
On-demand PrEP must be taken at specific times, and there have been reports of HIV infection when doses were missed or not taken correctly.
With daily PrEP, even if the timing varies slightly or a dose is missed, blood levels of the medication remain stable, maintaining its preventive effectiveness.
Daily PrEP is especially recommended for those who have sexual activity more than twice a month.
Kinds of PrEP
We adopt Descovy (new medicine) as PrEP.
Nausea, diarrhea, etc.
Short-term: Nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, rash
Long-term: Kidney disorder, bone salt decrease, etc.
Comparison
We prescribe Descovy (generic medicine) as our standard. The widely used existing medicine Truvada has a risk of renal impairment and osteoporosis if used for a long time. From 2019, when Descovy was approved by the US FDA, there has been a gradual move to switch PrEP from Truvada to Descovy, which has fewer side effects.
Periodic Tests
In continuing PrEP, it is recommended to take a periodic HIV test approximately once every three months. If you don’t take PrEP correctly and thus get infected with HIV without realizing it and keep taking PrEP afterwards, HIV will become resistant to the PrEP medication, which will be a significant obstacle to treatment.
PrEP is proven to have a preventive effect close to 100%, but infections due to forgetting intake have been reported. If you are worried about forgetting to take PrEP, we recommend Daily PrEP.
To Stop PrEP
If you want to quit PrEP, you need to quit after taking it for at least two days after the last potential exposure to HIV. It is safer to take it for about one or two days longer. Please consult our doctor in advance if you are unsure.
Flow of PrEP Prescription
PrEP prescription will take approximately 30 minutes, from your arrival at our clinic to payment.
Visiting us
You can make an appointment via our website or official LINE. If you fill the online questionnaire in advance, you will be able to have a smooth consultation after your visit.
* Walk-ins are also available, but you may need to wait. Please tell the receptionist that you want PrEP.
Consultation
During the first visit, you will discuss with a doctor what kind of PrEP scheme is most suitable for you.
Examination
You will be taking rapid tests for HIV and hepatitis B, as well as standard tests for syphilis and kidney function (taking approximately 20 minutes).
Those who visit us for the second time or later will be taking tests before the doctor’s examination.
Explanation of the results
The doctor will explain the results of the rapid tests. Feel free to ask any questions or discuss any concerns.
Prescription of PrEP
You will receive your medication at the reception after payment. Start taking it as instructed.
For ongoing medication for your second time or later, you can continue to be prescribed as long as there are no problems in rapid testing and the doctor’s examination.
Frequently asked questions about PrEP
What is the difference between generic and brand-name PrEP?
Generic medicines are released after the patent for the brand-name medicine has expired. They contain the same active ingredients, quality, efficacy and safety as the brand-name medicines have. The brand-name PrEP tablets are quite expensive, costing approximately 110,000 JPY for a month. To provide our patients with a more affordable option, we adopt generic PrEP medication.
How can you offer PrEP at a lower price?
We adopt generic medicines and strive to offer medications at an affordable price whenever possible. This is because we have a strong desire to promote the availability of HIV prevention medications in Japan for the purpose of promoting social commitment.
Which is better, daily or on-demand?
If you have sex twice a month or more, we recommend daily use. Even if you forget to take it by chance, the daily use reduces the risk of HIV more than on-demand PrEP does.
Is a condom necessary even if I take PrEP?
PrEP can only prevent HIV acquisition but not effective for other STIs. Thus, it is still recommended to use condoms during sex and take other measures to prevent STIs even with PrEP.
I forgot to take my medication. What should I do?
Take medication immediately as soon as you realize you’ve forgotten to take it, and resume your medication at the usual time from the following day.
How should I store my medication?
The medicine is in a bottle with a desiccant. Please store the bottle at room temperature. Be careful not to leave it in a cold or warm environment such as in the refrigerator or in a hot car.
HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
PEP, post-exposure prophylaxis, is an emergency prevention medication that can significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection when taken within 72 hours after a potential exposure to HIV.
For patients taking PEP, our doctors certified by the Japanese Society for AIDS Research provide not only mental health support but also expert guidance and additional testing as needed, based on the nature of exposure, until HIV negativity is confirmed.
If you have had a high-risk exposure to HIV and were not taking PrEP, you must take PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) within 72 hours to prevent infection.
Depending on shipping conditions, PEP delivery may be delayed. If you are able to visit us in person, we strongly recommend doing so.
[Price] = [Consultation Fee] + [Package Price] + [Optional Fees]
– Consultation Fee: First visit 2,500 JPY, Follow-up 1,000 JPY
– A doctor’s consultation is required for PrEP prescriptions.
Includes:
– HIV test (same day results)
– Hepatitis B test (same day results)
– Kidney function test (results via email)
– 1 bottle of PEP (30 tablets of Taffic)
* Take 1 tablet daily for 28 days. The remaining 2 tablets are for backup use.
For patients who purchase PEP from us, we offer 24-hour support via Official LINE for any questions regarding drug interactions, how to take the medication and more. Please feel free to contact us.
What is PEP?
PEP, post-exposure prophylaxis, is an immediate preventive measure that involves taking medication within 72 hours after a potential exposure to HIV, such as unprotected sex with someone who is HIV positive or at risk of HIV infection.
Brand-name PEP is extremely expensive, costing around 10,000 yen per tablet. And clinics offering brand-name PEP normally charge around 300,000 yen, including initial consultation and testing fees. We offer generic PEP, which is significantly more affordable, and the package includes rapid blood tests and follow-up care at approximately one-fourth of the price of brand-name PEP.
Recommended for those:
– Engaged in sex without proper protection
– Experienced condom breakage during sex
– Who had sex with multiple partners
– Engaged in sexual contact with an HIV-positive individual
– Sexually assaulted
– Involved in needlestick injury
Contraindicated to those:
– Whose sexual partners have tested negative for HIV
– Already being HIV positive
– Who have tested positive for hepatitis B (as PEP may worsen the condition)
Steps
PEP prescription will take approximately 30 minutes, from your arrival at our clinic to payment.
Visit us within 72 hours of the potential exposure
Walk-ins are welcome. Please inform the reception that you are seeking PEP.
Consultation
Our doctor will interview you to determine your eligibility for PEP.
Examination
Blood tests will be conducted to confirm that you are not already infected with HIV and can safely take anti-HIV medication. It would take approximately 20 minutes.
Explanation and Consent
The doctor will explain the use of PEP and request you to sign a consent document.
Prescription
You will receive the medication at the reception after payment. Start taking it as instructed.
Follow-up
If you are able to visit our clinic one month after starting PEP, we will conduct follow-up tests for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B free of charge (these tests are included in this package). Even if it is difficult for you to visit our clinic, we strongly recommend undergoing these tests.
Additionally, we also recommend periodic testing for HIV and hepatitis B in 3 months and 6 months (additional fees apply).
It is crucial to start taking PEP within 72 hours to minimize your risk.
We will accommodate you, even outside normal clinic hours. Get in touch now!
Price of PEP Package
We prescribe generic PEP, ensuring safety and minimizing patient burden in taking PEP.
Brand-name PEP is extremely expensive, costing around 10,000 yen per tablet. And clinics offering brand-name PEP normally charge around 300,000 yen, including initial consultation and testing fees.
We offer generic PEP, which is significantly more affordable, and the package includes rapid blood tests and follow-up care at approximately one-fourth of the price of brand-name PEP.
[Price] = [Consultation Fee] + [Package Price] + [Optional Fees]
– Consultation Fee: First visit 2,500 JPY, Follow-up 1,000 JPY
– A doctor’s consultation is required for PrEP prescriptions.
We accept payment in cash (Japanese yen), credit cards, and various electronic payment methods such as WeChatPay, AliPay and UnionPay. We do not accept payment through Travel Insurance.
– 30 tablets of generic PEP (including 2 extra tablets)
– HIV rapid test
– Hepatitis B rapid test
– Renal function examination (Results notified via e-mail)
We provide comprehensive support for individuals taking PEP. A doctor certified by the Japanese Society for AIDS Research offers psychological care and, based on expert knowledge, recommends additional necessary tests until HIV-negative status is confirmed after potential exposure.
Special discounted testing for syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other STIs is available at the start and after completing PEP.
We offer the following discounted tests exclusively to those who purchase a PEP package, valid for one month from the date of purchase.
Syphilis: 3,000 JPY (5,000 JPY)
Gonorrhea & Chlamydia (Genital, Throat, Anal – 3 sites): 3,000 JPY (20,000 JPY)
Syphilis, Gonorrhea & Chlamydia (Genital, Throat, Anal – 3 sites): 5,000 JPY (27,000 JPY)
Vaginal Discharge Test (Vaginal Candida, Trichomonas, Bacterial Vaginosis): 3,000 JPY (4,500 JPY)
These options are valid for one month after purchasing PEP.
A follow-up test one month after completing PEP is available at a special discounted price.
Price: 3,000 JPY
Includes:
– HIV Test (Same-day results)
– Hepatitis B Test (Same-day results)
– Kidney Function Test (Results via email)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PEP and PrEP?
PEP involves taking medication “after” a potential exposure to HIV, while PrEP is taken continuously “before” sexual contact to prevent HIV.
How effective is PEP?
Since the introduction of PEP, there have been no reported cases of HIV transmission in advanced countries among healthcare workers who experienced needle stick injuries (accidental self-injection of a needle contaminated with HIV), which is known to entail a higher risk than sexual contacts. Starting PEP as soon as possible significantly increases the effectiveness of HIV prevention.
I’m unsure whether I should take PEP. Is it necessary?
If you have had a contact or potential exposure to bodily fluids (such as semen, vaginal secretions, blood, etc.) from an HIV-infected individual, it is advisable to consider taking PEP. However, please consult a doctor for a specific assessment.
What is the difference between generic and brand-name PEP?
Generic drugs are released after the patent for the brand-name medication has expired. They contain the same active ingredients, quality, efficacy and safety as the brand-name medication. The brand-name PEP tablets are quite expensive, costing approximately 10,000 yen per tablet. To provide our patients with a more affordable option, we offer generic PEP medication.
How can you offer PEP at a lower price?
We utilize generic drugs to reduce costs and strive to offer medication at an affordable price whenever possible. This is because we have a strong desire to promote the availability of HIV prevention medications in Japan for the purpose of promoting social commitment.
Can I take the prescribed PEP medication abroad?
Please check the laws and regulations of your destination, as the regulations may vary depending on countries and regions.
Do you provide medical consultations over the phone?
For the sake of patient safety and accurate prescription, we do not offer telemedicine consultations for PEP prescriptions. If you would not be able to start PEP within 72 hours after a potential exposure due to our business hours, please contact us through our official LINE account.
May I grind the tablets and take them?
It is not recommended because crushing the tablets may result in a bitter taste, and there is no available data on the absorption when the tablets are crushed.
Is there a specific time to take the medication?
PEP should be started within 72 hours after a potential exposure, and the earlier it is started, the higher the preventive effect. However, there is no specific time of day designated for taking the medication.
Are there any side effects?
Reported side effects include nausea, insomnia, irritability, dizziness, and others. In most cases, these side effects are mild. If you have any concerns, please consult with our doctors.
I missed a dose. What should I do?
If you realize you missed a dose, take one dose as soon as possible. However, if the next regular dose is approaching (typically within 12 hours), skip the missed dose and take one dose at the next regular dosing time. Under no circumstances should you take two doses at once.
Are there any beverages that should be avoided?
There are no specific restrictions. However, it is advised to avoid consuming alcohol before or after taking the medication.
I vomited after taking the pill. What should I do?
If you vomit after taking the medication, do not take another dose. Once you feel better, try to take the medication at the next scheduled dosing time. Drinking plenty of water may help alleviate nausea.
Are there any medications or dietary supplements that should not be taken together?
Please avoid consuming products containing St. John’s Wort, as they may reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Additionally, supplements containing minerals such as aluminum, magnesium, iron or calcium may also diminish the effects of the medication.
I have heared 2 tablets for one dose. Is 1 tablet sufficient?
PEP necessitates the intake of three different components, and depending on the healthcare institution, multiple medications may be prescribed to cover all three. However, the PEP medication provided at our clinic contains all the necessary components in a single tablet.
What are 2 extra tablets for?
The medication we prescribe at our clinic comes in a bottle with 30 tablets, leaving 2 tablets as extras. After completing the 28-day course, please dispose of the remaining tablets. It is acceptable to take the additional 2 tablets over the following 2 days if desired, but there is currently no evidence to suggest that taking a total of 30 tablets enhances the effectiveness.
Doxy-PEP
Syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia are now preventable. These can infect not only the genitals but also the throat or anus and the infections in the throat and anus often have no symptoms but can still be transmitted through sexual activity, leading to a cycle of infection.
Doxy-PEP involves taking 200 mg of doxycycline (Vibramycin) within 72 hours after sexual activity to prevent syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia.
We also offer telemedicine consultations and delivery service of PrEP, PEP and other medications.
Effectiveness of Doxy-PEP
The infection prevention rates for Doxy-PEP have been reported as 87% for syphilis, 88% for chlamydia and 55% for gonorrhea (International AIDS Society Conference, July 2022).
Given that the infection rates for syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea are approximately 30%, 50% and 50% respectively when having sexual contact with an infected person, these prevention rates are remarkably high and have gained global attention.
Doxycycline is a commonly used antibiotic beyond STI prevention. Note that itcan have side effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and nausea.
We can prescribe Doxy-PEP based on a thorough consultation with a doctor, discussing the risks and benefits to determine suitability for each patient.
Recommended For
– Those who have previously had STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia
– Those who engage in sexual activity including oral sex and wish to prevent syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia
– Those with multiple sexual partners
– Those with higher risk of exposure, such as individuals working in the adult entertainment or AV industries (CSW)
In collaboration with the AIDS Clinical Center (ACC) and our partner clinic, Personal Health Clinic based in Tokyo, we prescribe Doxy-PEP to patients at high risk of contracting STIs.
We are accumulating data to evaluate the effectiveness of Doxy-PEP in Japan and aim to develop new preventive healthcare models and contribute to society.
We offer exclusive packages for individuals working in the adult entertainment and AV industries. For more details, please see below.
Syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia can be prevented with oral Doxy-PEP. Recent studies have also shown that gonorrhea may respond to certain vaccines. Learn more at the link below.
Doxy-PEP Pricing
Before starting or continuing Doxy-PEP, proper testing is essential. Receiving a prescription without testing or through personal imports without examination increases the risk of antimicrobial resistance and is dangerous.
To receive a Doxy-PEP prescription, testing for syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia (all potentially exposed sites) is required. We offer special discounted STI testing for everyone starting or continuing Doxy-PEP.
[Price] = [Consultation Fee] + [Package Price] + [Optional Fees]
– Consultation Fee: First visit 2,500 JPY, Follow-up 1,000 JPY
– Doxy-PEP prescriptions require a mandatory consultation with a doctor.
[Testing Fee]
Syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia (genital, throat and rectum): 5,000 JPY (normally 20,000 JPY)
If you prefer individual tests in combination with other services, we offer the following discounted prices:
Syphilis (quantitative): 3,000 JPY (normally 5,000 JPY)
Gonorrhea and chlamydia (genital, throat and rectum): 3,000 JPY (normally 20,000 JPY)
[Medication Fee]
| Dosage | Price |
|---|---|
| 2 tablets (1 dose) | 900 JPY |
| 10 tablets (5 doses) | 4,000 JPY |
If you have completed testing for syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia (all potentially exposed sites) within the past week, you can receive a prescription with only a consultation and medication fee.
This applies to test results from other clinics as well. If you are using our 3-test regular package, Doxy-PEP can be prescribed on the day of testing, as it includes syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia.
If you are requesting Doxy-PEP as a medication-only option, please bring documentation of your test results. (Consultation fee will still apply)
Always undergo proper testing when starting or continuing Doxy-PEP. Prescriptions from clinics that do not offer testing or imported medications without testing are risky and may lead to antimicrobial resistance.
We also offer a discounted vaginal discharge test (for vaginal candida, trichomonas and bacterial vaginosis) for those prescribed Doxy-PEP.
Vaginal discharge test (vaginal candida, trichomonas, bacterial vaginosis): 3,000 JPY (normally 4,500 JPY)
For questions or information about the cost of doxy-PEP, please contact us via Official LINE.
How to Start Doxy-PEP
According to guidelines, syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia testing (for all exposed sites) is mandatory before starting Doxy-PEP. (Details here)
We conduct quantitative syphilis testing and gonorrhea/chlamydia PCR testing (genital, throat and rectum) for all patients starting Doxy-PEP.
Always undergo proper testing before starting or continuing Doxy-PEP. Receiving prescriptions without testing or through personal importation is dangerous and increases the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Our doctors, certified by the Japanese Society for AIDS Research, are available during all clinic hours to provide expert guidance and prescriptions for HIV prevention (PrEP/PEP) and STI prevention medications.
We offer 24-hour support via Official LINE for those purchasing these medications, including questions about interactions and usage. Feel free to reach out.
Doxy-PEP is not effective against infections you already have.
Please consult with a doctor regarding treatment options.
How to Take Doxy-PEP
Doxy-PEP involves taking 200 mg (2 tablets) of Vibramycin within 72 hours (ideally 24 hours) after sexual activity.
Since gonorrhea and chlamydia can be detected by PCR as early as 24 hours post-intercourse, we recommend taking the medication within 24 hours. If you have questions about how to take it, please consult your doctor.
Side Effects of Doxy-PEP
The antibiotic used for Doxy-PEP is commonly prescribed for acne and other infections, not only STIs.
As with other antibiotics, possible side effects include diarrhea and nausea.
Nausea, diarrhea
– Nausea can often be avoided by taking the medication after meals.
– Diarrhea may occur when starting the medication, but usually improves with continued use.
Doxy-PEP is not suitable for everyone. Please inform your doctor if any of the following apply to you:
Not Suitable For
– Those trying to conceive, currently pregnant or breastfeeding
– Those with photosensitivity
– Those allergic to tetracycline antibiotics
Doxy-PEP and Antimicrobial Resistance
Taking Doxy-PEP when already infected with syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia may lead to resistance and make future treatment less effective.
These STIs can infect not only the genitals but also the throat and rectum, and often present no symptoms.
To prevent antimicrobial resistance, we require all patients starting Doxy-PEP to undergo syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia testing at a discounted rate.
We provide ongoing expert care to ensure safe use, including initial and regular follow-up testing.
Doxy-PEP and Gonorrhea Vaccine
The meningococcal group B vaccine, originally developed for meningitis, is now being used to help prevent gonorrhea due to similarities in their outer membrane structures.
Research since 2004, especially a recent French study, reports that this vaccine reduces gonorrhea risk by 51%.
We believe that combining Doxy-PEP with the vaccine offers even greater protection against gonorrhea, which has been difficult to prevent.
For patients with allergies to standard gonorrhea treatments, vaccination plays a particularly important preventive role.
Prescription Process
The Doxy-PEP prescription process takes approximately 30 minutes including consultation and payment.
Visit the Clinic
Please make an appointment via our website or Official LINE. Completing the online questionnaire in advance will help ensure a smooth consultation.
* Walk-ins are also accepted but may involve waiting. Let the reception staff know you are here for Doxy-PEP.
Testing
We will conduct the required tests. If desired, you may consult with a doctor before testing.
Doctor’s Consultation
During your first visit, a doctor will assess your eligibility for Doxy-PEP and review your medication schedule with you.
Results
If a rapid test is performed, the results will be explained on-site. Otherwise, results will be sent by email.
Prescription
You will receive the medication at reception during checkout and can begin taking it immediately.
For follow-up prescriptions, testing and a doctor’s consultation will be required again. If no issues are found, continued prescriptions are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it harmful to take this medication regularly?
Vibramycin is a widely used antibiotic with a well-established safety profile. However, prolonged use may slightly increase the risk of diarrhea or candida. Regular check-ins with a doctor are important.
Is resistance a concern?
Taking preventive medication without testing can lead to bacterial resistance. We always conduct testing before prescribing to ensure safe use.
Is testing required every time?
To avoid resistance, we require testing for each prescription. However, if you have STI test results from the past 7 days, additional testing is not necessary.
Is a doctor’s consultation required for every prescription?
Yes, all prescriptions require consultation with a doctor.
How should I store the medication?
Store it at room temperature. Avoid placing it in hot areas such as cars or inside a refrigerator.
Gonococcal Vaccine (Meningococcal B Vaccine)
The meningococcal B vaccine was initially used to prevent meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. And since the outer membrane structure of meningococcal B and gonococcal bacteria are similar, it was hypothesized that the vaccine could also prevent gonorrhea.
Since around 2004, there has been progress in its development, and a recent French study reported that the meningococcal B vaccine can prevent 51% of gonorrhea cases.
We believe that using the vaccine in combination with Doxy-PEP can provide a higher level of prevention against gonorrhea, which has been difficult to prevent until now.
For individuals allergic to gonorrhea treatment medications, preventing infection with a vaccine is particularly important.
Recommended For
– Those who have had gonorrhea or other STIs
– Those allergic to first-line gonorrhea treatments (e.g. ceftriaxone)
– Those with multiple sexual partners
– Those at high risk of infection, such as individuals working in the adult entertainment or AV industries (CSW)
The gonorrhea vaccine can be administered on the same day as your Doxy-PEP prescription. Please consult with a doctor.
While no serious side effects have been reported, the following reactions may occur:
More than 10%: Pain or swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache
1-9%: Nausea, fever
The vaccine price is listed below. Two doses are recommended for effective protection against gonorrhea.
Price: 26,000 JPY per dose
Number of doses: 2
Schedule: Initial dose and a second dose one month later
Combining Doxy-PEP with the vaccine offers higher preventive effect against gonorrhea.
Patients vaccinated at our clinic are eligible for free testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia (genital, throat and rectum) during both doses (normally 20,000 JPY).
Additionally, for one year from the initial dose, gonorrhea and chlamydia testing (genital, throat and rectum) is available for 3,000 JPY at any time.
This testing is available only as part of non-insurance-based medical care. Treatment will also be provided as private care in accordance with Japan’s legal restrictions on mixed billing.