Why Take PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a medicine that people take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. PrEP can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout your body.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends PrEP as an HIV prevention strategy. Taking PrEP medication as prescribed reduces the risk of getting HIV via sexual contact by about 99% and reduces the risk of getting HIV by at least 74% among persons who inject drugs.
Two oral medications, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Truvada®) and emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide or (Descovy®) are currently approved for daily use as HIV PrEP. Multiple generic formulations of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine—the equivalent of Truvada—are now available in the United States for HIV prevention with PrEP. In addition to the oral medications already approved, in December 2021, the FDA approved APRETUDE (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension), for intramuscular use as HIV PrEP.
Is PrEP Safe?
PrEP is safe. No significant health effects have been seen in people who are HIV-negative and have taken PrEP for up to 5 years.
Some people taking PrEP may have side effects, like nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. These side effects are usually not serious and go away over time.
And be aware: PrEP protects you against HIV but not against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other types of infections. Combining PrEP with condoms will reduce your risk of getting other STIs.
How Do You Get PrEP?
PrEP is only available by prescription. If you think PrEP may be right for you, call us at 573-882-3107 to learn more about PrEP and schedule a consultation. You do not need a referral from your primary care doctor.
How Much Does PrEP Cost?
PrEP is covered by many health insurance plans, and commercial medication assistance programs provide free PrEP to people with limited income and no insurance. Our team can also help you explore your financial options.