One pill a day can prevent HIV transmission
What is PrEP?
PrEP stands for “pre-exposure prophylaxis,” an HIV preventative medication that, when taken as directed, can protect an HIV-negative person from contracting the virus. To reduce their risk of infection, an HIV-negative person takes a medication every day. In the event of an exposure to the HIV virus, the PrEP medicine in the person's bloodstream can help stop HIV from establishing a permanent infection in the body.
Does PrEP work?
PrEP is most effective when taken consistently each day. According to the CDC, by using PrEP daily as prescribed, you can dramatically lower your risk of contracting HIV. Studies have shown that PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken daily. Among people who inject drugs, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV by at least 74% when taken daily. Adding other prophylaxis strategies, such as condom use, along with PrEP can further reduce your risk. Two medications have been approved by the FDA for use as PrEP, your provider will help you to choose which one is right for you.
Is PrEP right for me?
PrEP is for those who do not have HIV, but who may be susceptible for becoming infected with HIV through sex or injection drug use. To be effective, PrEP must be taken every day, as prescribed. PrEP may be right for you if:
- you are in an ongoing sexual relationship with an HIV-positive partner; or
- you are a gay or bisexual man who is not in a monogamous relationship with a recently tested, HIV-negative partner, and you have had anal sex without a condom in the past 6 months; or
- you are a heterosexual man or woman who is not in a monogamous relationship with a recently tested, HIV-negative partner, and you do not always use condoms during sex with partners whose HIV status is unknown; or
- you have injected drugs in the past 6 months and have shared needles or injection equipment
HOW TO BEGIN
TPAN is here to help! Learn more, ask any questions, and find out how we can assist you with referral to a PrEP provider.
Contact Joshua, Prevention & Health Education Manager, at (773) 632-5569 or j.gutierrez@tpan.com.