What you need to know about PrEP

PrEP is short for pre-exposure prophylaxis. Translation: taking a daily pill to prevent getting HIV. Here are a few things you should know about PrEP.

PrEP is for people who don’t have HIV but who may be at high risk of becoming infected—especially gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, and particularly those who have anal sex without a condom. PrEP is also recommended for anyone who has an HIV-positive partner. PrEP isn’t for people who are HIV-positive.

There are currently two FDA-approved medicines for PrEP. The two pills are available under the trademarks Truvada® and Descovy®. There are also generic versions of Truvada® available in the United States. Ask your doctor for more information.

PrEP is available only by prescription. A doctor must prescribe PrEP. You can’t get it over the counter.

PrEP is covered by most health insurance plans. The cost of PrEP will depend on your insurance plan. It may even be free! If you don’t have insurance, there are programs, including the PrEP Drug Assistance Program, that may help cover the cost of PrEP.

You must be tested for HIV before you can start taking PrEP. Your doctor cannot prescribe PrEP without being certain you are HIV-negative. They must also test your kidneys before prescribing PrEP.

It’s important to be tested frequently for HIV and STDs while on PrEP. Testing every three months is recommended, yet some providers may extend the testing period depending on their clinical practice guidelines.

PrEP is most effective when you take it once daily. For full protection, PrEP must be taken every day. Missing a dose may increase your chances of getting HIV.

PrEP isn’t a morning-after pill. PrEP must be taken before possible exposure to HIV. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours, visit your doctor or an urgent care center for post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP.

PrEP will not protect you from STDs. If you’re concerned about getting STDs, such as syphilis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea, ask your partners about when they were last tested. Also be sure to get yourself tested for STDs regularly, especially if you’re not using condoms. Condoms and plenty of lube can help protect you from STDs, but these infections can also be passed through oral sex or other sexual contact.

PrEP causes minimal side effects. Short-term side effects include nausea, headaches, fatigue, and weight loss. If you experience these or any other conditions while taking PrEP, tell your doctor.

If you’re on PrEP and you think you may have an STD, tell your doctor right away. Don’t wait until your next visit!

If you are interested in PrEP but don’t know where to go or are worried about the cost, the PrEPDAP program may be able to help.