PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. The word prophylaxis means to prevent or control the spread of an infection or disease. The goal of PrEP is to prevent HIV infection from taking hold if you are exposed to the virus.
PrEP involves taking medication to prevent HIV infection. Oral PrEP involves taking a pill once daily to prevent HIV infection in someone who is HIV-negative. Currently there are two pills approved for PrEP:
When taken consistently, every day, oral PrEP has been shown to reduce the liklihood of HIV infection by about 99%.
There are also options for PrEP given by injection. One option—Apretude—is given every two months (following two initiation doses given a month apart). A second injectable option—Yetzugo—is given only twice a year.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers these guidelines on people who should consider taking PrEP:
You have had anal or vaginal sex in the past 6 months and you:
You inject drugs and you:
In addition to requiring taking pills or getting an injection consistently, those on PrEP are also advised to see health care provider regularly for follow up and get tested for HIV every three months.
If you are interested in PrEP, you’ll want to find a provider who is both knowledgeable about PrEP and supportive of your decision. If you have a regular health care provider, you can start there. The PrEP locator can also help you find a provider in your area.
Most insurance plans and state Medicaid programs cover PrEP. Under the Affordable Care Act, PrEP must be free under almost all health insurance plans.
