What is PrEP?

PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a medication used to reduce acquiring HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) in persons who are HIV-negative.

When used as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of acquiring HIV from sex by about 99% and reduces the risk of acquiring HIV from injection drug use by 74%.

Because PrEP only protects against HIV, condom use is still recommended for protection against other STIs (sexually transmitted infections). If PrEP is not being used, condom use is also recommended to help prevent HIV transmission.

The most common form of PrEP includes taking a daily pill containing two antiretroviral drugs such as Truvada (emtricitabine & tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) or Descovy (emtricitabine & tenofovir alafenamide). Another alternative would be long-acting injectable PrEP such as Apretude (cabotegravir) which is injected by a healthcare provider every month for the first two months, and then every two months thereafter.

“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first drug for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), Truvada, to reduce the risk of HIV infection in adults on July 16, 2012.”

Is PrEP for me?

There are several factors to consider when determining if PrEP is right for you.

  • Risk Assessment: PrEP is recommended for individuals who have a partner living with HIV, engage in condomless sex (especially with multiple or anonymous partners), share injection drug equipment, engage in transactional sex, or have a history of STIs (sexually transmitted infections).

  • Sexual Practices: Consider your sexual practices and behaviors. If you have condomless sex or engage in sexual activities that may expose you to HIV, PrEP might be appropriate.

  • Injection Drug Use: If you inject drugs and share needles or other equipment, this increases your risk of HIV. PrEP can provide protection in such situations.

  • Regular HIV Testing: PrEP requires regular HIV testing (at least every 3 months) to ensure it remains effective and to monitor for any potential breakthrough infections. If you are willing to commit to regular testing, this is a positive factor.

  • Commitment to Adherence: PrEP is most effective when used consistently as prescribed. If you are able to adhere to a daily pill regimen or routine injection visits with your healthcare provider, PrEP can provide significant protection against HIV.

  • Health Considerations: Discuss your overall health with a healthcare provider. They will evaluate if there are any medical reasons why PrEP might not be suitable for you.

  • Access and Affordability: Ensure that PrEP is accessible and affordable for you by contacting your insurance for drug coverage questions. Their phone number and/or website are usually located on the back of your insurance card. In many countries, PrEP is covered by insurance. Copay assistance and patient assistance programs may be available to help reduce costs; check with your pharmacy, healthcare provider, or the drug manufacturer.

“The Crofoot Research Center completed the clinical trial called Discover, which studied Descovy for PrEP. ”
“Descovy was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 3, 2019.”

How can I get PrEP?

If you think PrEP is right for you, schedule an appointment and talk to your provider. Your provider will complete a risk assessment, complete HIV/STI & safety laboratory testing, and discuss treatment options.

Once prescribed PrEP, you’ll need to have routine testing and provider visits at least every 3 months. Be sure to follow up with your provider to coordinate those visits with your refills as needed.

Most insurances cover PrEP as preventative care and there may be some copay assistance and patient assistance programs available to help reduce costs.