PrEP HIV Prevention Medication Q&A

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) involves the use of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection in high-risk HIV-negative individuals by taking antiretroviral drugs approved by the CDC. Research suggests that PrEP is highly efficacious, as long as the drugs are taken regularly and as directed by a physician. PrEP can reduce the chance of HIV taking hold and spreading throughout your body.

PEP means post-exposure prophylaxis, while PrEP is Pre-exposure prophylaxis. Both are methods of preventing HIV with medication. PrEP is taken every day before possible exposure, while PEP is taken within 72 hrs (3 days after) possible exposure.

Though PrEP is not suitable for everyone, it is ideal for many people who are categorized as high-risk HIV-negative individuals.

High-risk HIV-negative individuals include the following:

• Have a sex partner with HIV
• Have sex with individuals whose HIV status is unknown
• Share injection drug equipments
• If you belong to any of the categories above, then you should consider PrEP medication

For people who don’t have HIV but may have been exposed:

• During sex
• At work through needle sticks or other injuries
• By sharing injection drug equipment
• During sexual assault

If used consistently and as prescribed, PrEP will reduce the risk of contracting HIV infection substantially. Though PrEP can cause side effects like nausea and vomiting in some people, these aren’t life-threatening and subside after a while. PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy, and nor is it a cure for HIV.

Contact Eastway Medical Clinic and Urgent Care in Charlotte North Carolina and book an appointment if you need PrEP or PEP. We also take same-day appointments and walk-ins. We serve patients from Charlotte NC, Newell NC, Mint Hill NC, Matthews NC, Allen NC, Harrisburg NC, and surrounding cities.