PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP is a pill for those who do not have HIV, but are at exposure risk.  Taken only once a day, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90%.  Among people who inject drugs, it reduces the risk by more than 70%. Your risk of getting HIV from sex can be even lower if you combine PrEP with condoms and other prevention methods.

Should I take PrEP?

PrEP is for people who do not have HIV, but are at high risk for getting it from sex or injection drug use.

It is recommended for people who are not in a mutually monogamous relationship.

It is also recommended for gay or bisexual men engaging in anal sex without condoms.

PrEP is also strongly recommended for people who have injected drugs in the past 6 months or share needles.

If you have a partner who is HIV positive, PrEP is also highly advised.

Is PrEP right for me?

PrEP may not be right for everyone because it involves daily medication and regular visits to a healthcare provider.  PrEP may also cause side effects like nausea in some people, but these subside over time.