Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 and up Men only

Understanding antibiotic resistance and microbiome changes in STI prevention

Official title: STI Prophylaxis and Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance

Run by University College, London · NCT06778083 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to see how using doxycycline for STI prevention affects antibiotic resistance and changes in gut bacteria in men who have sex with men.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexMen only
Enrollment108 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity College, London
Academic / other
Locations1 site (London)
StatusRecruiting
StartedFebruary 10, 2025
Main results expectedApril 30, 2027
Study endsApril 30, 2027
Registry record updatedMarch 27, 2025
Trial IDNCT06778083 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are men aged 18 and older who identify as cis or trans and have sex with men.

Probably not a fit

Patients currently being treated for an STI or those who have used antibiotics other than doxycycline in the past three months may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the risk of antibiotic resistance and alterations in the human microbiome associated with the use of doxycycline for STI prophylaxis among men who have sex with men (MSM). The study will recruit 108 participants, both users and non-users of STI prophylaxis, who will provide throat swabs and stool samples every six months. These samples will be analyzed for bacterial DNA to identify species present and assess antibiotic resistance. Additionally, participants will complete questionnaires to evaluate the acceptability of the prophylaxis approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the safety and effectiveness of using doxycycline for STI prevention, potentially leading to better public health strategies.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of assessing antibiotic resistance in relation to STI prophylaxis is relatively novel, similar studies have explored antibiotic use and resistance, indicating potential for valuable findings.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged ≥ 18 years.
* Identifies as a man (cis or trans).
* Has sex with men.
* Able to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Use of an antibiotic other than doxycycline in the 3 months prior to enrolment
* Currently being treated for an STI with doxycycline
* Use of doxycycline within the prior 3 months for an indication other than STI treatment or STI prevention.

Where it's running

  • Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
    London, United Kingdom
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.