What is PrEP?

PrEP, short for pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a daily prescription medication designed for individuals testing negative for HIV. It aims to prevent HIV transmission through sex or drug use. PrEP is not a vaccine but rather a daily pill.

Whereas, post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, is a medication for HIV-negative individuals who may have been exposed to HIV within the past 72 hours. Those prescribed PEP are required to take it for one month.

Currently, two drugs approved in the US are prescribed as PrEP:

• Truvada: Approved for use by all adults

• Descovy: Approved for use only by men who have sex with men and transgender women who have sex with men

Is PrEP right for me?

Determining if PrEP is suitable for you is a decision best made with the guidance of a medical professional. Consider PrEP if you are HIV-negative and at an increased risk of contracting HIV. Factors elevating your risk include being in a relationship with a person living with HIV, inconsistent condom use during sex, and sharing injection drugs or hormone replacement equipment.

If you believe PrEP might be suitable for you, give us a call at 337.439.1386

What is PEP?

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an emergency intervention for people who may have recently been exposed to HIV. It must be started within 72 hours of a potential exposure, ideally within the first 24 hours, and is taken as a 28-day course of medication.

PEP is intended for one-time emergency situations, such as condom breakage or sexual assault, rather than for frequent risk.
While effective when started promptly, it is less reliable than PrEP for continuous protection and does not prevent future infections after the course is completed.