PrEP - Kernow Positive Support

What is HIV PrEP?

PrEP is a way of preventing HIV infection by taking a pill on an ongoing basis before sex and continued after sex. It’s taken by someone who doesn’t have HIV, to prevent them from getting HIV. The PrEP pill is an antiretroviral drug – the same type of pill taken by someone who already has HIV to treat HIV. You’re protecting your own HIV negative status by taking PrEP.

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis.

What goes into PrEP?

One drug is approved for use as PrEP – the branded drug Truvada. PrEP is also available in generic, unbranded form – these drugs are known as generics. Generics contain the same ingredients as Truvada and work in the same way. Truvada and the generics contain 2 active drugs:

Tenofovir TDF
Emtricitabine FTC.

PrEP and STIs

PrEP only protects you against HIV. You need to take other precautions to reduce your risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis and hepatitis C. We recommend regular STI testing. You also need to do an HIV test every three months.

Useful Links

If you would like more information about PrEP, please contact your local Sexual Health Service. You can find their location here.

Additional information can also be found at:-

http://prepster.info

https://www.prepimpacttrial.org.uk

https://www.iwantprepnow.co.uk

PrEP – FAQ

How big are the Tablets?
The tablets are quite Big, therefore some individuals do struggle to take them. It it advised that they are not crushed or split, however there are products available to help with the consumption of big tablets.

Is there another form of PrEP which I can take instead of Tablets?
Sadly, there is no liquid form of PrEP. It is only available in tablet form.

Is PrEP available on the NHS?
Currently PrEP is not available on the NHS unless you are enrolled onto a Clinical Trial. For more information, please visit https://www.prepimpacttrial.org.uk/

How much does PrEP cost?
The cost of PrEP varies, depending on the supplier and can range from £20 – £80 per month. For information on where to buy genuine generic PrEP online, please visit https://www.iwantprepnow.co.uk/buy-prep-now/

Are there any side effects to taking PrEP?
Most people who take PrEP don’t experience side effects. When people do get them they tend to go away on their own within a few weeks. Side effects can include stomach problems, headaches or tiredness.

What is HIV PrEP?

What goes into PrEP?

PrEP and STIs

Useful Links

PrEP – FAQ

Information

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