Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Everything You Need To Know
What is PrEP?
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, involves taking medication to prevent HIV infection for individuals at risk of HIV exposure due to behaviors such as unprotected sex or injection drug use.
Medication Used for PrEP:
Common generic medications for PrEP include TENOF-EM/ TENVIR-EM. These medications contain Emtricitabine 200mg and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate 300mg. They are safe for individuals at risk of HIV through sex or drug injection.
Is PrEP Suitable For Me?
Before starting PrEP, your doctor will conduct an HIV screening test to confirm you are HIV negative. PrEP is recommended for individuals who:
- Have a sexual partner who has HIV, especially if the partner has a detectable viral load.
- Do not consistently use condoms.
- Have been diagnosed with an STD in the past 6 months.
- Share needles or syringes for drug injection.
How Can I Start PrEP?
Start by consulting your doctor. They will conduct an HIV screening test before prescribing PrEP. Regular clinic visits every 3-6 months are necessary for follow-up, HIV tests, and prescription refills.
How Do I Take PrEP?
You will typically receive a monthly supply of PrEP. Daily, you'll take one tablet. Alternatively, for those not at ongoing risk, an on-demand PrEP regimen ("2-1-1" schedule) can be followed: taking 2 pills 2 to 24 hours before sex, followed by 1 pill 24 hours after the first dose, and another 1 pill 24 hours later.
How Effective Is PrEP?
PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed. It reduces the risk of HIV transmission through sex by about 99%. However, for protection against HIV from drug injection, its effectiveness is lower, around 74%.
How Long To Take PrEP? PrEP reaches maximum protection against HIV:
- For receptive anal sex: about 7 days of daily use.
- For receptive vaginal sex and injection drug use: about 21 days of daily use.
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Condom Use with PrEP:
PrEP only protects against HIV. Condom use is still advised to prevent other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) transmitted through genital fluids.
Safety & Side Effects:
PrEP is generally safe to use for HIV-negative individuals. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and dizziness, which are usually mild and temporary. In rare cases, PrEP may affect kidney function.
