PrEP
What is PrEP?
PrEP is an antiretroviral drug used to prevent HIV infection before engaging in risky sexual activity, such as unprotected sex or condom failure. It is 99% effective in preventing HIV transmission.
Who is PrEP suitable for?
- Individuals looking to prevent HIV infection can take PrEP before engaging in sexual activity. It is suitable for all genders who are sexually active.
- Individuals who do not typically use condoms during sex.
- Individuals in professions with a higher risk of HIV exposure, such as male or female sex workers.
How many methods are there for using PrEP?
PrEP is currently a combination antiretroviral pill that consists of two drugs: Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) and Emtricitabine (FTC).
There are two ways to take PrEP:
Daily PrEP
- All genders can take it.
- Suitable for individuals who cannot plan sexual activity in advance, such as those who provide sexual services.
- It is most effective when taken 7 days after starting PrEP, reducing the risk of HIV infection by up to 99.9%.
- Take 1 pill daily at the same time each day.
On-Demand PrEP
- Designed for use by males only.
- Does not require daily use like Daily PrEP.
- Follow the 2-1-1 method: Take 2 PrEP pills at least 2 hours before and after sex. Then continue taking PROP for an additional 2 days, with 1 pill per day at the same time.
- Offers 97-99% protection against HIV infection.
What steps should be taken before starting PrEP?
Individuals seeking to receive PrEP need to undergo a blood test to determine their eligibility. This test includes screening for HIV infection, hepatitis B infection, and kidney function before initiating PrEP. If any abnormal results are detected, such as HIV or hepatitis B infection, or significantly reduced kidney function, the individual will not be eligible to start PrEP.
What are the side effects of PrEP?
Mild nausea may occur when initially starting PrEP. Symptoms typically improve after 3-5 days of taking the medication.
PEP
What is PEP?
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency treatment involving antiretroviral drugs used to prevent HIV infection after potential exposure to the virus, such as unprotected sex, torn condoms, leaks, or needle punctures. PEP can reduce the risk of HIV infection by as much as 84-89%.
When is the appropriate time to start PEP?
PEP should be taken within 72 hours of exposure to HIV, but it is most effective when taken within 24 hours of potential HIV infection.
What steps should be taken before starting PEP?
Individuals eligible for PEP must have a negative Anti-HIV test result. If the test result is positive for HIV, they are not eligible to receive PEP for HIV infection prevention.
How many formulations of PEP are available?
There are currently several formulations of PEP, each equally effective in preventing HIV infection. However, they may differ in terms of side effects. This can impact adherence to the full 28-day course of medication. Individuals experiencing significant side effects may struggle to complete the full treatment regimen as prescribed, leading to reduced effectiveness in preventing HIV infection.
Formulations of PEP with minimal side effects include:
- KOCITAF comprises three drugs: Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate (TAF), Emtricitabine (FTC), and Dolutegravir (DTG).
- BIKTAVY contains three drugs: Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate (TAF), Emtricitabine (FTC), and Bictegravir (BIC).
Both types of PEP have minimal impact on kidney and liver function and do not require food to be taken with them. They can be taken on an empty stomach, unlike other medication formulas.
Side effects of PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
Most of these symptoms typically occur within the first 3-5 days of starting the medication and usually resolve within 7 days. The severity of side effects may vary depending on the specific PEP regimen used.
How to take PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis):
Take one tablet per day for 28 days.
After completing PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis), what steps should one take next?
After completing a 28-day course of PEP, it is advisable to undergo HIV screening (Anti-HIV) twice: once after finishing the PEP regimen and again after being at risk for 3 months while on PEP. HIV screening should not be skipped as the results could be negative, potentially leading to a false sense of security.
While taking PEP pills, is it safe to have sex?
People who are on PEP can still engage in sexual activity, but it is advisable to use condoms every time to reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to others.
Special service for individuals unable to visit the clinic.
PrEP and PEP medicine delivery service.
Each set includes:
- 1 HIV self-test kit
- 1 bottle of PrEP or PEP.
Please note: A risk assessment will be conducted by the doctor before each delivery.
Consult your doctor for medication.
Line: @pskclinic
Tel: 095-049-4142
