When it comes to preventing HIV, there’s one powerful tool to know about: PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It’s a medication that works by stopping HIV from replicating in your body. But here’s the important thing—you’re only protected if there’s enough PrEP in your system. This means taking it exactly as prescribed is key to keeping HIV at bay.
Who Should Consider PrEP?
PrEP is a preventative option for people at higher risk of HIV. You might benefit from PrEP if:
– You’re HIV-negative and have condomless sex within higher-risk networks.
– Your current or former partner is HIV-positive.
– Your partner comes from a country with high rates of HIV.
– You have sex with people of unknown HIV status without using condoms.
– You inject drugs.
Getting PrEP: What to Expect
PrEP comes as a tablet that contains two medications—tenofovir disoproxil and emtricitabine. These drugs are also used to treat HIV, but in PrEP, they serve as a shield. You can get PrEP through the NHS at a sexual health clinic.
Here are a few quick facts:
– PrEP doesn’t protect you from other STIs—just HIV.
– Side effects like nausea, bloating, and fatigue are common at first but usually subside after a couple of weeks.
– You can take PrEP daily or “on demand” based on how frequently you have sex.
Taking PrEP: Daily or On-Demand?
How you take PrEP depends on your lifestyle and needs:
– Daily PrEP: Taking PrEP every day provides ongoing protection for both vaginal/frontal and anal sex. If you start today, you’ll need to wait seven days before you’re fully protected. If you need coverage sooner, follow the on-demand guidelines.
– On-Demand PrEP: Best suited for anal sex, on-demand dosing involves taking two tablets two to 24 hours before sex, followed by one tablet 24 hours later and another 48 hours after that. This method may be referred to as the 2-1-1 dosing.
Missing a dose occasionally is okay as long as it’s within 12 hours. If it’s been longer, just take the next dose at the regular time. If you miss more than two doses in a week, consult your doctor.
Monitoring and Stopping PrEP
Before starting PrEP, you’ll undergo tests for HIV, other STIs, hepatitis B, and kidney function. Regular testing, usually every three months, helps ensure your health remains optimal. PrEP can slightly affect kidney health, so more frequent testing might be necessary if you’re over 40 or already have kidney issues.
When you’re ready to stop PrEP, check with your healthcare provider. They may recommend taking it for a few days after your last sexual activity to ensure full protection.
Side Effects and Potential Risks
PrEP is generally safe, but like any medication, it can cause side effects:
– Common Side Effects: Temporary nausea, indigestion, headaches, and fatigue. If side effects persist, talk to your clinic doctor.
– Rare Side Effects: In very few cases, PrEP can affect kidney function or bone density, particularly in older individuals with pre-existing kidney issues. If you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms, it’s best to get checked out.
Thinking Of Taking PrEP?
If you think PrEP could be right for you, consult a sexual health clinic, they are by far the best available resource for this type of medication and they will have the added benefit of a variety of case examples guiding patients through treatment of this nature . They’ll guide you through the process, discuss your options, and ensure you know exactly how to take it for maximum protection. In summary, PrEP is a game-changer for HIV prevention when taken correctly and with regular health check-ups. If you’re at risk, it might just be the extra layer of protection you need.