PrEP
What does PrEP do?
PrEP is a daily medication regimen that helps prevent HIV in those who are HIV- Negative.
Who is a good candidate for PrEP?
- Individuals with an HIV-Positive Partner
- Injection drug users the share needles or equipment
- Individuals who have multiple partners and are not using condoms consistently
- Individuals who recently had an STI Diagnosis
- Individuals with inconsistent condom usage
Does PrEP work?
Yes! PrEP has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV transmission by up to 92% among men who have sex with men (MSM), a group disproportionately impacted by HIV. There have been several large scale studies for PrEP which have included populations such as Men who have sex with Men, Men who have sex with Women, Women who have sex with men, and people who inject drugs.
PrEP is also not a stand alone prevention measure. PrEP alone does not protect from other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) such as herpes, gonorrhea, Syphilis, etc.Using both condoms and PrEP increases protection from all STIs including HIV.
Where can I get PrEP?
PrEP can be prescribed by your primary physician or a specialty provider. Not sure where to go? Check out these links below:
The key to the effectiveness of PrEP is adherence.
PrEP is not as effective when taken inconsistently, and is more effective when combined with other prevention techniques. This includes: condoms, partners with a suppressed viral load (undetectable), and controlled substance usage.
Does PrEP have any risks?
When talking to a doctor about PrEP, it’s important to bring up any potential kidney or liver problems or cases of Hepatitis. Before PrEP is prescribed, blood work is done to
look at an individuals’ kidney and liver functions, as well as an HIV test to ensure someone is truly HIV negative. During an individuals’ time on PrEP, routine blood work will be done to ensure there are no negative side effects.
Does PrEP have to be taken for life?
Similarly to someone who is using birth control to prevent pregnancy, they can continue to take that pill for years and then come off for years. PrEP is almost the same. You can continue to take PrEP until you feel your risk factors have changed. For example, if you are not having sex regularly anymore. When stopping PrEP, you should continue using PrEP for four weeks after the last possible high-risk exposure. If down the road you feel that your risk factors have changed again, you can restart on PrEP.
Is PrEP right for me? Sharing information about your life can help your doctor determine if you are at high risk of getting HIV-1 infection through sex. Your doctor will also run tests to confirm you are HIV-negative. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you already have HIV infection or if you do not know your HIV status.
Is PrEP affordable?
PrEP is covered by most insurance plans. If you do not have insurance PrEP is still available. There are patient assistance programs, where prescriptions can be filled for a very low cost and sometimes for free. Ask your provider if your insurance plan will cover the costs of PrEP.
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