PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) may be a suitable option if you are HIV-negative and meet any of the following criteria:

• You have had anal or vaginal sex in the past six months and:
  • Have a sexual partner living with HIV, especially if their viral load is detectable or unknown.
  • Do not consistently use condoms.
  • Have been diagnosed with an STD within the past six months.
• You use injection drugs and:
  • Share needles, syringes, or other injection equipment.
  • Have an injection partner who is HIV-positive.
• You have been prescribed PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) and:
  • Continue to engage in behaviors that put you at risk for HIV.
  • Have taken multiple courses of PEP.

Even if you don’t fit these categories, you may still choose to take PrEP as a preventive measure. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if it’s right for you. If you have an HIV-positive partner and are considering pregnancy, consult your doctor about PrEP. It may help reduce the risk of HIV transmission while trying to conceive, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding

PrEP is available as either daily oral pills or long-acting injections.

• Oral PrEP Pills: Two FDA-approved pills combine two anti-HIV medications in a single tablet:
  • Truvada® (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) – Approved for all individuals at risk of HIV through sex or injection drug use. Generic versions are also available.
  • Descovy® (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) – Approved for sexually active men and transgender women at risk of HIV through sex. It is not recommended for individuals at risk through receptive vaginal sex.

• Injectable PrEP:
  • Apretude® (cabotegravir) – A long-acting injectable PrEP option approved for individuals at risk of HIV through sex who weigh at least 77 pounds (35 kg). It is administered by a healthcare provider once every two months instead of taking daily pills.

PrEP has been proven safe for long-term use, with no significant health concerns observed in HIV-negative individuals taking it for up to five years. Some people may experience mild side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, or stomach pain. These effects are usually temporary and subside over time. If you experience any persistent or bothersome side effects, consult your healthcare provider.

It’s important to note that PrEP only protects against HIV, not other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or diseases. Using condoms in addition to PrEP can further reduce your risk of contracting other STIs.

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) may be an appropriate option if you are HIV-negative or unsure of your HIV status and believe you have been exposed to HIV within the past 72 hours. Possible exposure scenarios include:

• During sex, such as a condom breaking with a partner whose HIV status is unknown or with a partner who is HIV-positive but not virally suppressed.
• Through shared drug injection equipment, including needles, syringes, or other tools like cookers.
• As a result of sexual assault.
• From a potential workplace exposure, such as a needlestick injury. While occupational HIV transmission is extremely rare, PEP can be a preventive measure in such cases.

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, seek medical attention immediately. PEP is most effective when started as soon as possible, ideally within hours, but no later than 72 hours after exposure.

No, PEP is meant for emergency situations only and should not be used as a routine HIV prevention method. If you are at ongoing risk of exposure to HIV, consider discussing PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) with your healthcare provider as a more suitable long-term prevention option.We accept most insurance plans and offer assistance programs for those without coverage. Don’t let cost be a barrier—our team is here to guide you through the options.

PEP is generally safe, though some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as nausea. These side effects are usually manageable and not life-threatening. If you notice any side effects that persist or become bothersome, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Additionally, PEP medications can interact with other substances, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, recreational drugs, and alcohol. To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment, inform your healthcare provider about any medications or substances you are currently using.