Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
HIV PrEP works by preventing HIV from replicating in
the body. It’s important to take PrEP as directed. If you
don’t have enough PrEP in your system, you might get
infected with HIV if exposed. When taken as directed,
PrEP is 99% effective at helping you stay HIV-negative
during sex, and reduces the risk by at least 74%, among
people who inject drugs.
HIV PrEP may be right for you if you test negative for HIV and if any of the following apply to you:
- Do not consistently use condoms
- Been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the last 6 months
- Have a sexual partner with HIV
- Share needles, syringes, or other drug equipment to inject drugs
- Have used multiple courses of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
Even if none of the above apply to you, you can still choose to take PrEP.
HIV PrEP can be taken in different forms.
- Daily pill(s) you swallow
- 1 shot every 2 months
- On-demand pill regimen
You can work with a health provider to create a HIV PrEP plan that meets your needs.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a pill you take within 72 hours after sex to help prevent certain STIs. DoxyPEP helps with chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis. HIV PEP helps prevent HIV infection.
HIV PEP may be right for you if you are HIV negative and think you may have been exposed in the last 72 hours during sex, through shared needles or other drug equipment, through sexual assault, or through a possible workplace exposure such as a needlestick.
If you think you were exposed, it is important to see a provider immediately. Every hour counts!