Long-Acting Injectables for HIV Prevention & Treatment

Long-acting injectables are medications that remain active in the body for an extended period after an injection. They can be used for HIV prevention or, for eligible people living with HIV, as HIV treatment.

Yes. Long-acting injectable options for HIV prevention (PrEP) and HIV treatment are available for both men and women who meet the appropriate eligibility criteria. Your healthcare provider can help determine which prevention or treatment option is right for you based on your individual health and needs.

Yes. PrEP is available as a long-acting injectable option as well as oral medication. Injectable PrEP provides HIV prevention without requiring a daily pill.

When used as prescribed, injectable PrEP is more than 99% effective at reducing the risk of getting HIV from sex. Learn more about PrEP from the CDC.

Long-acting injectable PrEP options include Apretude® (cabotegravir) and Yeztugo® (lenacapavir). These medications provide highly effective HIV prevention without the need to take a daily PrEP pill. Your provider can help determine which PrEP option is right for you.

It may be. Your healthcare provider can help you compare injectable and oral PrEP based on your health, preferences, and ability to follow the recommended dosing schedule.

Yes. Long-acting injectable HIV treatment is available for certain people living with HIV. Eligibility depends on factors including your current HIV treatment, viral suppression, treatment history, and overall health. Effective HIV treatment can help people achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load. Learn more about HIV treatment and Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) from HIV.gov.

Long-acting HIV treatment options include Cabenuva® (cabotegravir and rilpivirine) for eligible people living with HIV. Your provider will review your current treatment, viral load, health history, and other factors to determine whether injectable HIV treatment is an option for you.

Some people who are currently taking oral HIV medication may be eligible to switch to long-acting injectable treatment. A healthcare provider will need to review your viral load, treatment history, and other health information to determine whether switching is appropriate.

Injection schedules vary depending on the medication and whether it is being used for HIV prevention or treatment. Your healthcare provider will explain your specific schedule before you begin treatment.

Yes. Long-acting medication reduces how often you take medication, but it does not replace routine healthcare. You’ll still need scheduled visits, recommended testing, and monitoring.

Prism Health North Texas offers long-acting injectable options for PrEP and HIV treatment at our health centers across Dallas, Texas. Our experienced HIV prevention and care teams can help you explore available options, determine whether an injectable medication is right for you, and develop a care plan that fits your needs. Make an appointment today →