PrEP 101

What is PrEP?

• PrEP stands for “pre-exposure prophylaxis” 
• PrEP can help prevent you from getting HIV if you are exposed to the virus
• PrEP can be used for anyone who is HIV-negative and in a sexual relationship with a partner who is HIV- positive, who has a sexual relationship with a partner of unknown HIV status, and/or is an intravenous drug user.
• PrEP is an HIV prevention option that works by taking a pill or getting an injection

Are you a candidate for PrEP?

• Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if you are a candidate for PrEP

How does PrEP work?

Pill

• One PrEP pill must be taken every day and requires a follow-up appointment every three months, including HIV testing and refills

Injection

• Given as a single injection monthly for two consecutive months
• Subsequent injections are administered every two months
• HIV testing is required prior to each injection
• A negative rapid test result allows for the injection to be administered while an RNA test is pending confirmation

Is PrEP covered by insurance?

• Most public and private insurance programs cover PrEP, and patients can get help with their co-pays
• Drug assistance programs can help patients without insurance pay for PrEP

Disclaimer: PrEP does not guarantee the prevention of HIV and should be used with other safe sex practices such as condoms. With any medication, there are side effects. Some people in the clinical studies had side effects such as an upset stomach or loss of appetite, but symptoms were usually mild and went away in the first month. Some people also had a mild headache. No serious side effects were observed. You should tell your healthcare provider if these or other symptoms become severe or do not go away.

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