Why is pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) used?
Use PrEP to protect against HIV.
- It almost always protects you from getting HIV through sex.
- It reduces your risk of getting HIV from injecting drugs.
Take PrEP if you're trying to get pregnant with someone who has HIV.
- It can help prevent you from getting HIV. This will protect you and your baby.
How do you take HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)?
PrEP may be taken as a daily pill. It may also be given as a long-acting shot.
It's important to stay on schedule when taking PrEP. If you skip a pill or miss a shot appointment, PrEP doesn't work as well to block the virus.
Taking medicine to prevent HIV infections (PrEP): Overview
If you're at risk of being infected with HIV, talk to your doctor about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). When taken as directed, this medicine can help prevent you from getting HIV. While taking PrEP, you'll need to see your doctor and get regular HIV tests. If you're concerned about the cost of the medicine, there are programs that can help.
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