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 medication every day. In the event of exposure to HIV, 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 every day. According to the CDC, by using PrEP daily as prescribed, you can lower your risk of contracting HIV from sex by more than 90% and injection drug use by more than 70%. Adding other prophylaxis strategies, such as condom use, along with PrEP can further reduce your risk. The FDA has approved two medications for use as PrEP, and your provider will help you choose which one is right for you.

IS PREP RIGHT FOR ME?

PrEP is for those who do not have HIV but may be susceptible to 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:

  1. you are in an ongoing sexual relationship with an HIV-positive partner; or
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. you have injected drugs in the past 6 months and have shared needles or injection equipment

PrEP counseling and referrals for PrEP medication are available:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 10 AM to 4 PM

Wednesday 12 PM to 7 PM

Friday 9 AM to 7 PM

**walk-ins are okay**

If you need to speak to someone about PrEP or have questions, contact Joshua Gutierrez at j.gutierrez@tpan.com.