Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a way to help prevent HIV by taking a daily pill, along with consistent condom use. If you are at substantial risk for HIV, talk to your doctor about PrEP.
Some fast facts
- PrEP must be taken every day to be most effective.
- PrEP users must see their healthcare provider at least every three months for medication refills, repeat HIV testing and follow-up care.
- PrEP does NOT protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
All about PrEP
What is PrEP?
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a safe way for people who do not have HIV to stay that way by taking a pill called Descovy or Truvada. If you have been exposed to HIV through sex or injection drug use, PrEP can help stop the virus from establishing a permanent infection.
When used consistently, PrEP has been shown to greatly reduce the incidence of HIV infection in people who are at substantial risk. It is a powerful HIV prevention tool that can be combined with condoms and other prevention methods to provide even greater protection.
Should I consider PrEP?
There are 50,000 new HIV infections diagnosed every year in the U.S., and there is no vaccine or cure. Prevention is key. PrEP should be considered for people who are HIV negative and at substantial risk for HIV infection.
Individuals considered to be at substantial risk for infection include:
- Anyone who is in an ongoing relationship with an HIV-positive partner
- Anyone who has sex with high-risk partners
- Individuals who do not regularly use condoms during sex with partners whose HIV status is unknown
- Individuals who are trying to conceive with an HIV-positive partner
Is PrEP safe?
Some people in clinical studies reported mild side effects, such as upset stomach or loss of appetite, that usually went away in the first month. Some people also experienced mild headache. You should tell your healthcare provider if these or other symptoms become severe or do not go away.
Does PrEP always work?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), studies have shown that PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken daily.
However, no HIV prevention strategy is 100% effective. We always encourage the use of other known HIV-prevention methods to maximally reduce your risk of infection, such as:
- Using condoms consistently and correctly with every sexual encounter
- Getting HIV tested with partners
How can I start PrEP?
If you think you are at substantial risk for HIV, talk to your healthcare provider about PrEP. You will need a general physical exam and a blood test to check for HIV and other STIs. Your blood will also be tested for kidney and liver function to determine if PrEP is safe for you.
How much does it cost?
Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover PrEP. If you are unable to afford your co-pay or you do not have health insurance, you may be eligible for patient assistance programs.