What is PrEP?
PrEP is a medication that helps you prevent HIV. PrEP is a daily pill that requires medical follow-up appointments and regular laboratory test as part of the treatment. It is an additional prevention method like wearing a condom.
Who Can Take PrEP?
Any person who is not living with HIV and is at risk of exposure to HIV. PrEP is right for you if:
- You don’t use condoms
- You have a sex partner who is HIV+
- You don’t know the status of your sex partners
- You do sex work
- You share needles for drug or hormone use
- If you use a substance such as drugs or alcohol before or at the time of sexual intercourse
- If you decide to use PrEP
How Do I Take PrEP?
PrEP is a pill that should be taken every day to ensure effectiveness. PrEP starts working in your body after you have been taking it for 7 days and begins full protection effects between 20-28 days after treatment has begun.
How Effective is PrEP?
PrEP prevents HIV by more than 90%. This depends on continuously following the treatment. You should know that PrEP does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis and gonorrhea. This is why it must be combined with use of a condom.
Why should I take PrEP?
You ask why? We say why not? Everyone can be at risk of contracting HIV, and this is one way to protect yourself. PrEP is one more protection method to take control of your health.
