{"id":1182,"title":"On PrEP: A Simple, Complete Guide to HIV Prevention","slug":"on-prep-a-simple-complete-guide-to-hiv-prevention","lang":"en","description":"Staying protected from HIV has never been more accessible. PrEP—short for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis—is one of the most effective, science-backed tools available today. If you’re curious about how PrEP works or you’re considering starting it, this guide explains everything in a simple, ad-friendly format.","content":"

What Is PrEP?

PrEP is medication for people who do not have HIV that reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken correctly, PrEP can lower sexual HIV risk by up to 99%.

In the United States, PrEP is available in three forms:

Daily Oral PrEP

TDF/FTC (Truvada or generic)
TAF/FTC (Descovy)

Long-Acting Injectable PrEP

Cabotegravir (Apretude), given by a healthcare provider.
One shot to start, a second at 4 weeks, then one injection every 2 months.

How Does PrEP Work?

PrEP builds protective drug levels in your blood and tissues. If HIV enters the body, the virus cannot multiply or establish an infection.

Time to full protection:
Daily pills: ~7 days for anal sex, ~21 days for vaginal sex and injection exposure
Injections: Protection begins within days of the first shot

Who Should Consider PrEP?

PrEP is recommended if you:

Have sex with partners whose HIV status you don’t know
Have a partner who is not consistently virally suppressed
Don’t always use condoms
Recently had an STI
Share injection equipment
Want extra protection and peace of mind

Health organizations like the CDC and WHO support offering PrEP based on personal preference and risk level.

Types of PrEP and How to Use Them

1. Daily Oral PrEP

Take 1 pill every day.
Highly effective and suitable for most people.

2. Event-Driven “2-1-1” PrEP (off-label)

For some cisgender men who have sex with men.
Take 2 pills 2–24 hours before sex, then 1 pill 24 hours later, and 1 pill 48 hours after the first dose.
Not recommended for vaginal exposures.

3. Long-Acting Injectable PrEP

One injection to start, another after 4 weeks, then every 8 weeks.
A discreet, low-maintenance option with excellent effectiveness.

Is PrEP Safe?

PrEP is safe for most people.
Common mild side effects include nausea, fatigue, or headache.
Injectable PrEP can cause temporary soreness at the injection site.

Rare side effects may include small changes in kidney function or bone density, mainly with TDF/FTC.

Before starting PrEP, you’ll need:

HIV test
Kidney function test
STI screening
Hepatitis B evaluation

Follow-up visits typically happen every 2–3 months.

How to Start PrEP

You can begin through:

Primary care doctors
Sexual health clinics
LGBTQ+ health centers
Community PrEP programs
Telehealth services

Many clinics offer same-day PrEP for quick, easy access.

Cost and Insurance

In the U.S., most private insurance plans and many Medicaid programs cover PrEP medication, labs, and visits with no cost to you.
If you’re uninsured, federal assistance programs can help you start PrEP for free.

Tips for Using PrEP Effectively

Take your daily pill at the same time each day
Use phone reminders
Don’t share medication
Keep regular testing appointments
Contact your provider if you miss multiple doses or injections
Learn about PEP for emergency protection after possible exposure

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PrEP something I need forever?

No. Use PrEP during periods of higher risk, and pause it when your risk decreases.

Can I switch between pills and injections?

Yes. Your provider will help plan a safe transition.

Does PrEP prevent STIs?

No. It only protects against HIV. Regular STI testing is still important.

Is PrEP safe during pregnancy?

Many people use PrEP safely during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Discuss options with your clinician.

Why Being “On PrEP” Matters

Using PrEP gives you control, confidence, and powerful protection. It reduces HIV risk to extremely low levels and supports healthier communities. If you’re ready to explore PrEP, reach out to a trusted provider and choose the option that fits your li

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