PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It’s medicine that can help prevent HIV. Using PrEP can lower your chances of getting HIV from sex by up to 99%. Anyone who is sexually active and doesn’t have HIV can use PrEP.
Who can use PrEP?
You may choose to use PrEP if you have had anal or vaginal sex in the last 6 months and any of the following apply to you:
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- You have a sexual partner who has HIV
- You don’t regularly use condoms
- You have been diagnosed with another STD within the last 6 months.
How do I use PrEP?
There are 3 ways you can use PrEP to help prevent HIV:
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- A daily pill taken by mouth.
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- A bi-monthly (every other month) shot:
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- When you start, you’ll receive 2 shots, 1 month apart. Then you’ll get 1 shot every 2 months from your nurse or doctor.
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- A bi-monthly (every other month) shot:
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- “On-Demand” PrEP:
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- You may be able to take oral PrEP only at times you’re at risk of getting HIV (also known as “event driven” or “non-daily” PrEP). Talk to your nurse or doctor to see if this may be right for you.
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- This means taking 2 PrEP pills 2-24 hours before you have sex, 1 pill 24 hours after the first dose, and 1 pill 24 hours after the second dose. Also known as 2-1-1 Under the Affordable Care Act, PrEP must be free under almost all health insurance plans. That means you can’t be charged for your PrEP medication or the clinic visits and lab tests you need to maintain your prescription.
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- “On-Demand” PrEP:
Where can I get free PrEP?
You can apply to get free PrEP through the Ready, Set, PrEP program. Gilead also has a medication assistance program that could make PrEP free for you, depending on your income. Our Practice staff can help submit an application for you to find out if you qualify.
