What is PREP?
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“PrEP” stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. The word “prophylaxis” means to prevent or control the spread of an infection or disease. The goal of PrEP is to prevent HIV infection from taking hold if you are exposed to the virus. This is done by taking a pill that contains 2 HIV medications every day.
Why take PrEP?
According to data analysis from the iPrEx study that found PrEP to be effective:
- For people who take 7 PrEP pills per week, their estimated level of protection is 99%.
- For people who take 4 PrEP pills per week, their estimated level of protection is 96%.
- For people who take 2 PrEP pills per week, their estimated level of protection is 76%.
Side effects & Safety Monitoring?
Rates of side effects while on PrEP are low. Mild symptoms such as mild stomach discomfort, dizziness and loss of appetite may appear the first few weeks. Although the risk of side effects from PrEP are very low, safety monitoring is important. When HIV-positive people use the same meds, it is important to check kidney function before starting PrEP and routinely every three months while taking PrEP.
How Long should a person take PrEP?
PrEP is appropriate for periods of time when people have greater risk for contracting HIV. Those periods may be short or long or recurrent, depending on the individual. The Center of Disease Control (CDC) also recommends that before people discontinue PrEP, we would do ongoing HIV risk-reduction counselling and support.
Is it necessary to have blood test before starting PrEP?
Yes, if you take PrEP without knowing that you are HIV positive, it can lead to drug resistant HIV infection. What we are trying to provide for our community is smart and proper way to be protected by PrEP.
Can I use PrEP as an extra protection even though I practice safe sex ?
Yes. If you are anxious and fear meeting other men because worry of situations like doing head jobs without a condom, condoms breaking, slipping off, condom is not safe enough then PrEP is still good for reducing the fear of meeting others. Some medical professionals also use PrEP to prevent HIV infection if they get a needle stick injury (NSI). PrEP is safe and effective. Many PrEP users reported that they are much more relieved so much of fear after starting PrEP and this improve the relationship with others.