What is PrEP and how can it protect you from HIV?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication used by HIV-negative people to prevent HIV infection. PrEP involves taking a daily combination of two antiretroviral (ART) drugs to reduce the risk of HIV infection. PrEP is an effective method of HIV prevention when taken as prescribed and can work for various populations, including men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who inject drugs, sex workers, and HIV-positive heterosexual couples.

How does PrEP work?

PrEP works by interrupting the HIV replication cycle. HIV enters the body through the blood and penetrates the host cell, where it replicates. PrEP medications block an enzyme present in the virus, preventing it from replicating and reducing the likelihood of transmission.

It's important to note that PrEP is not a substitute for other preventive measures, such as using condoms and maintaining a regular dialogue with your partner about sexual health.

Who is PrEP suitable for?

PrEP is appropriate for people at risk of HIV infection. This includes men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who inject drugs, sex workers, and heterosexual couples with an HIV-positive partner.

It is also appropriate for people who may have had multiple sexual partners, have a history of sexually transmitted infections, or engage in other high-risk activities for HIV transmission. In some parts of the world, it is also approved for use in cases of accidental exposure to HIV, such as needlestick injuries or unprotected sex with a risky partner.

What are the benefits of PrEP?

PrEP has been shown to be highly effective in preventing HIV transmission. Clinical trials and studies have shown that, when taken correctly, PrEP can reduce the risk of contracting the virus by 99%. PrEP is also cost-effective, as it is significantly cheaper than ART and other preventive measures.

Another benefit of PrEP is the reduction of stigma for people at risk of HIV. Taking PrEP can help people feel more confident about their sexual health and reduce the fear and anxiety often associated with HIV testing. PrEP can also encourage at-risk people to undergo regular HIV testing and maintain an open dialogue with their healthcare providers about their sexual health.

PrEP dosage and side effects

PrEP is taken as a 75 mg film-coated tablet, usually taken once a day. The tablets can be taken with or without food, and the dose should be continued even if the individual has not had sexual intercourse. People using PrEP must also undergo regular blood tests to monitor their liver and kidney function, as well as their HIV status.

Common side effects of PrEP can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and disappear after a couple of days. Very rarely, some people have experienced serious side effects, such as kidney damage, liver problems, or lactic acidosis.

Conclusion

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective way to reduce the risk of HIV infection for people at risk. PrEP works by blocking the enzyme present in the virus responsible for replication. When taken as prescribed, PrEP has been found to reduce the risk of HIV transmission by 99%. It is generally well tolerated, with nausea and headache being the most common side effects. PrEP can also help reduce the stigma associated with HIV and encourage people to engage in regular discussions with their healthcare providers about their sexual health.