HIV Prevention (PrEP)
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a prevention method that involves taking prescription medication once a day to block HIV and prevent you from contracting the virus. It's as easy as taking one pill once a day. PrEP is safe and there are many ways it can be paid for even if you don't have insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a daily pill or periodic injection for people who do not have HIV. PrEP lowers the chance of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. PrEP is part of a broader prevention plan.
PrEP is for people who test negative for HIV and have higher risk of exposure. This includes people with partners living with HIV, people with multiple partners, or people who inject drugs. A clinician reviews your history and HIV status before starting PrEP.
PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed. Daily oral PrEP reduces sexual transmission by about 99 percent and reduces injection drug transmission by at least 74 percent. Injectable PrEP also shows strong protection.
PrEP pills reach strong protection for receptive anal sex after about seven days of daily use. For vaginal sex and injection drug use, strong protection takes about 21 days. Injectable PrEP provides protection soon after the first injection.
Take the missed pill as soon as you remember unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double doses. One missed dose does not remove protection, but repeated missed doses reduce effectiveness.
PrEP is safe for most users. Before starting, HIV testing and kidney function checks are completed. During PrEP, follow-up visits monitor safety and HIV status. Serious complications are rare.
Common effects include nausea, headache, or weight changes. These are often mild and improve over time. Kidney function changes are possible with oral PrEP so labs are monitored.
Prices vary by location, insurance, and method. Many insurance plans cover PrEP. Drug assistance programs lower or remove the cost for eligible people. Ask a clinic or pharmacy staff about coverage and assistance.
Yes, many assistance programs help with medication and visit costs. Community clinics and public health departments support people without coverage. National patient assistance programs also reduce or eliminate medication costs.