Ditch the Daily Pills: Simplify HIV Prevention and Treatment with Long-Acting Injectables

At Prism Health North Texas (PHNTX), we’re dedicated to making sexual health and HIV care accessible and inclusive for all. As we continue to expand our range of services, we’re excited to offer long-acting injectables (LAIs) for both HIV prevention and treatment. This innovative approach offers an effective and convenient option for those seeking alternatives to daily oral medications.

In recent years, long-acting injectables have gained momentum as a groundbreaking advancement in HIV care. By delivering medication through periodic injections, LAIs simplify treatment routines and help patients achieve better health outcomes with fewer daily reminders. Whether you’re looking to prevent HIV transmission with PrEP or manage HIV with long-term treatment, here’s why LAIs might be the right choice for you.

What Are Long-Acting Injectables?

Long-acting injectables are medications administered through an intramuscular injection that provide protection or treatment for two months, after the initial loading dose. This slow-release formula allows individuals to go about their daily lives without the need for daily oral pills, reducing the risk of missed doses and helping maintain steady levels of medication in the body.

At PHNTX, we currently offer long-acting injectables for two key purposes:

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Long-acting PrEP injections can prevent HIV in those who are at risk of exposure. By administering a dose every two months, patients can lower the risk of contracting HIV without the need for a daily pill.

HIV Treatment: For those already living with HIV, long-acting injectables as part of antiretroviral therapy (ART) offer a convenient alternative to traditional daily regimens. With just one injection every one to two months, people with HIV can maintain undetectable viral loads and continue to live full, healthy lives.

Why Choose Long-Acting Injectables?

There are several reasons why long-acting injectables can be a beneficial option for those seeking either HIV prevention or treatment:

Ease of Use

For many people, remembering to take a daily medication can be challenging, whether due to a busy schedule, lifestyle factors, or simply forgetting. With long-acting injectables, you only need to remember your next appointment every couple of months. This can be a game-changer for anyone who struggles with daily adherence.

Increased Privacy

Some people may worry about others finding their pills or feel anxious about taking medications in shared spaces. With an injection-based approach, there’s no need to keep medications at home or carry them around, providing added privacy.

Consistent Protection

Long-acting injectables can reduce the risk of missing doses, which is particularly valuable for PrEP. For people who are at high risk for HIV, a missed pill can reduce the effectiveness of oral PrEP. With a long-acting injection, you’ll have consistent protection between doses.

Reduced Stigma

Adhering to a medication routine can sometimes be challenging due to social stigma or fear of judgment. An injection every month or two offers a discreet option that eliminates the need for daily reminders and visible pill bottles.

How to Get Started with Long-Acting Injectables at PHNTX

Getting started with long-acting injectables at PHNTX is straightforward. Here’s what to expect:

Initial Consultation

Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers to discuss your health goals and whether LAIs are the right choice for you. During this consultation, you’ll learn about how LAIs work and potential side effects.

Treatment Plan

If you decide to move forward, our team will work with you to set up your treatment schedule. For both PrEP and HIV treatment, initial injections are administered four weeks apart, and then injections appointments occur two months. We understand that life happens, which means you may not be able to return on the exact date, so there is about week’s leeway, but sticking to the schedule is important for efficacy.

Ongoing Support

At PHNTX, we’re here for you every step of the way. Our team provides supportive follow-up appointments to ensure that you feel comfortable with the process, can address any side effects, and help you stay on track with your long-acting injectable schedule.

Taking Charge of Your Health

Long-acting injectables offer an innovative way to support your health and help you live your life without the daily management of pills. Whether you’re seeking a convenient PrEP option or a streamlined HIV treatment, LAIs can provide the consistent coverage and peace of mind you deserve.

At Prism Health North Texas, we’re proud to offer this service and expand our role in HIV prevention and treatment for our community. If you’re ready to explore whether long-acting injectables are right for you, reach out to schedule your consultation with one of our friendly providers.

Note: All of our providers are able to prescribe LAIs; however, we only administer injections at our Worth Clinic.

Book Your Appointment Today

For more information or to start treatment today, contact Prism Health North Texas at 469-205-8600 or request an appointment online. Take the next step in prioritizing your health with the ease and efficacy of long-acting injectables.