Are you asking, “What is PrEP?” or “What will PrEP protect me from?” or “Is PrEP right for me?”
In short, PrEP can protect you from contracting HIV. PrEP is often recommended for individuals who are considered “high risk,” using shared needles, or trying to get pregnant while your partner lives with HIV.
Prophylaxis means any action to prevent disease. Pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP is a medicine that protects you against HIV by stopping the virus from establishing itself in your body. TRUVADA® and DESCOVY® are daily pills approved by the FDA for a PrEP regimen that helps prevent an individual from contracting HIV.
When taken as directed, PrEP is 99% effective in preventing HIV.
PrEP does not protect you against other STIs (sexually transmitted infections). You can reduce your risk of STIs by practicing safer sex methods (e.g., condoms, lube, regular testing) and cleaning needles if you use shared needles.
PrEP is safe. All studies to-date show the most common side effects were upset stomach and headache, but these usually faded within the first month.
It takes 7–20 days for PrEP to reach required levels for protection in the body. Consult with your provider to establish the timeline for your body.
Yes! PrEP is not a substitute for condoms and does not prevent the spread of other sexually transmitted infections. Reduce your risk of STIs with safer sex methods like condoms, lube, and regular testing.
Yes. Years of data have proven PrEP is safe for pregnant individuals and their babies. PrEP is also effective for individuals who want to get pregnant with their sexual partner who is living with HIV.
Take PrEP as long as you have continued high-risk exposure to HIV and your provider is confident with your body’s response to the medication regimen.
PrEP can cause headaches, nausea, and decreased weight, all of which typically subside over time. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that do not go away.
TRUVADA® and DESCOVY® for PrEP are covered by most insurance plans and by Medicaid. If your health insurance plan doesn’t cover the medications or you meet certain income requirements, you may also be eligible for other assistance provided through PHNTX.
PrEP is pre-exposure prophylaxis and therefore a daily pill taken before exposure to HIV that can be taken indefinitely. PEP, post-exposure prophylaxis, is medication taken immediately after your exposure to HIV (within 72 hours) and continued for 28 days.
The U.S. Government’s Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is a great resource for more in-depth information about PrEP & PEP.
Content Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: PrEP, PEP; HIV.gov: PrEP, PEP; TheBody.com
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