PrEP and nPEP- HIV Prevention
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy that involves the daily use of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection in
HIV-negative individuals.
In July 2012, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Truvada (TDF/FTC) for use as PrEP in HIV prevention in sexually active HIV–negative individuals. PrEP is used in conjunction with other prevention methods to reduce the risk of infection.
Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) involves taking antiretroviral medications as soon as possible after a potential exposure to HIV to reduce the likelihood of HIV infection. There are two types of PEP: 1) occupational PEP, or an exposure that happens in the workplace (such as a needle stick in a healthcare setting), and 2) non-occupational PEP (nPEP), or when someone is potentially exposed to HIV through sexual intercourse or injection drug use. To be effective, PEP must begin with 72 hours of exposure and consists of 2-3 antiretroviral medications that must be taken for 28 days. A physician must determine what treatment is appropriate based on the nature of the exposure. Starting PEP after a potential exposure does not guarantee that someone exposed to HIV will not become infected.
List of PrEP ProvidersLiving well with HIV- Treatment as Prevention
Receiving a positive test result for HIV is the beginning of multiple emotions and feelings. Knowing what care and treatment services are available and how to access them are extremely important to living well with HIV.
Treatment
Thanks to better treatments, people with HIV are now living longer—and with a better quality of life—than ever before. Current treatment for HIV is not a cure for the virus, but it can keep HIV under control and this keeps the immune system strong!
List of HIV Providers