PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
Updated:PrEP, which stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a medication-based HIV prevention strategy. It involves taking specific antiretroviral drugs daily by HIV-negative individuals to reduce their risk of contracting HIV if exposed to the virus. PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed, significantly lowering the risk of HIV transmission through sexual contact or injection drug use.
Additional Information
PrEP typically consists of a combination of two HIV medicines (tenofovir and emtricitabine) sold under the brand name Truvada, or a newer formulation called Descovy. It's important to note that while PrEP is highly effective against HIV, it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or prevent pregnancy. Regular HIV testing, STI screenings, and medical check-ups are essential parts of a PrEP regimen.
PrEP is recommended for individuals at high risk of HIV exposure, including:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM) and have multiple partners
- Individuals in serodiscordant relationships (where one partner is HIV-positive and the other is HIV-negative)
- People who inject drugs
- Individuals who engage in high-risk sexual behaviors
Examples
A gay man in a non-monogamous relationship takes PrEP daily to reduce his risk of HIV infection.
An HIV-negative individual in a relationship with an HIV-positive partner uses PrEP as an additional layer of protection alongside