What Is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis.
PrEP is a strategy used to prevent HIV infection.
It involves taking medications regularly before potential exposure to the virus, significantly reducing the risk of contracting HIV.
PrEP can come in different forms, including daily pills or less frequent injections, depending on what works best for the individual.
The goal of PrEP is to provide people at higher risk of HIV with a proactive, preventive tool to protect themselves.
Check if your eligible for PrEP
Forms of prep
PrEP comes in two main forms, each designed to suit different needs:
Daily Pills: The most common form of PrEP is a daily pill. People take this medication every day to maintain high levels of protection against HIV. Brands like Truvada and Descovy are well-known examples.
Injections: For those who may find it difficult to take a pill daily, there is a long-acting PrEP injection, such as Cabotegravir (Apretude). This injection is given once every two months, offering a less frequent but equally effective option.
Both forms aim to provide flexibility, allowing people to choose what fits their lifestyle best.
Who are the people who need prep
PrEP is recommended for people who are at higher risk of being exposed to HIV. This can include:
People with Multiple Sexual Partners: Those in relationships where either partner has multiple partners or is unsure of their partner’s HIV status.
People in a Relationship with an HIV-Positive Partner: PrEP helps protect the HIV-negative partner from contracting the virus.
Sex Workers: Individuals in this profession may benefit from the added protection PrEP provides.
People Who Inject Drugs: Sharing needles increases the risk of HIV, so PrEP can offer protection for those at risk.
How does prep work
PrEP works by preventing HIV from establishing an infection in your body.
Taking Medication Regularly: Whether it’s a daily pill or an injection every few months, PrEP needs to be taken consistently to be effective.
Blocking HIV: If you're exposed to HIV (through sex or needle use), the medication in PrEP prevents the virus from replicating and spreading in your body.
By keeping the medication in your bloodstream, PrEP provides a protective shield that greatly reduces your risk of contracting HIV.
What should you do before starting PREP?
Before starting PrEP, there are a few important steps to follow:
HIV Test: You need to take an HIV test to ensure you are HIV-negative. PrEP is only for people who do not have HIV.
Kidney Function Test: Your healthcare provider may check your kidney function, especially if you opt for the daily pill, as some PrEP medications can affect kidney health.
Hepatitis B Test: It is important to know that your liver is well and that you are not exposed to Hepatitis, as the liver breaks down the medication.
Kidney Function Test: Your healthcare provider may check your kidney function, especially if you opt for the daily pill, as some PrEP medications can affect kidney health.
Hepatitis B Test: It is important to know that your liver is well and that you are not exposed to Hepatitis, as the liver breaks down the medication.
Discuss Your Health History: Talk to your healthcare provider about any medical conditions, medications, or allergies to ensure PrEP is safe for you.
Commit to Regular Check-ups: Once you start PrEP, you’ll need follow-up visits every 3 months to monitor your health and get regular HIV tests to ensure the treatment is working effectively.
These steps help ensure PrEP is right for you and that you're starting it safely.
Is prep for everyone
Not everyone can take PrEP, but it is available for people at higher risk of HIV who meet certain criteria. Here's who shouldn't or may not take PrEP:
People Who Are HIV-Positive: PrEP is only for HIV-negative individuals. If you are HIV-positive, other medications are needed to manage the virus.
People with Severe Kidney Problems: Some forms of PrEP, like the daily pill Truvada, can affect kidney function. If you have serious kidney issues, your doctor may recommend a different option or advise against it.
People with Certain Allergies: Some may have allergies to the ingredients in PrEP medications. In such cases, alternatives may be considered.
PrEP is a safe and effective tool, but it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right option based on your health and risk factors
Is prep safe
PrEP is generally safe for most people. It has been extensively studied and used by many individuals around the world to prevent HIV. Most people experience few or no side effects, but like any medication, some may have mild reactions. Here are a few things to know about PrEP's safety:
Common Side Effects: Some people may experience mild symptoms such as nausea, headaches, or stomach discomfort when they first start taking PrEP, but these usually go away after a few days or weeks.
Long-Term Safety: For most people, PrEP is safe even when taken over long periods. However, regular check-ups are recommended to monitor kidney health and other potential issues.
Kidney and Bone Health: Some forms of PrEP, like Truvada, may affect kidney function or bone density in rare cases. Your doctor will monitor these during your follow-up visits.
Different Options: If one form of PrEP causes side effects, there may be other options, like the injectable form, that could work better for you.
In general, PrEP is a well-tolerated and safe way to prevent HIV when taken under medical supervision.
Self-medication on prep
Self-medication with PrEP is not recommended and can be dangerous. PrEP requires medical supervision for a few important reasons:
HIV Testing: You need to confirm you're HIV-negative before starting PrEP. If you’re already HIV-positive and take PrEP, it could lead to drug resistance, making treatment more difficult.
Proper Dosing: PrEP must be taken correctly—either daily or via injection schedules—to be effective. Improper use may reduce its protection against HIV.
Health Monitoring: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor side effects, kidney function, and overall health. Without medical supervision, you could miss important signs of complications.
Tailored to Your Needs: A healthcare provider can help choose the best form of PrEP (pill or injection) and ensure it fits your health status and lifestyle.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting PrEP to ensure it's safe, effective, and right for you.
An injection of the drug cabotegravir, once every 2 months, is being explored. The drug has been tested in cis women, and in cis men and trans women who have sex with men. Trials show it to be more effective than oral PrEP - probably because of adherence (it's easier to forget to take a pill). Find out more here.
There are other pipeline methods being explored, including using islatravir as a monthly oral PrEP pill. In addition, there is early development of products to prevent both pregnancy and HIV, in one method. Find out more here.