PrEP Treatment with Bellaire Primary Care
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a preventive medication for people who are HIV-negative but at high risk of contracting HIV. Key points about PrEP include:
- Purpose: PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and from injection drug use by at least 74% when taken as prescribed.
- Forms:
- Daily oral pills
- Long-acting injectable
- How it works: PrEP contains antiretroviral drugs that can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout the body if exposure occurs.
- Effectiveness timeline:
- For receptive anal sex: Maximum protection after about 7 days of daily use
- For receptive vaginal sex and injection drug use: Maximum protection after about 21 days of daily use
- Availability: PrEP can be prescribed by any licensed healthcare provider .
PrEP is part of a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy and should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures such as condoms and regular STI screenings
1. Appointment
Your provider will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history and lifestyle.
2. Plan
After gathering sufficient information, your provider will collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may involve risk factor modifications and prescribed medications.
3. Treatment
Once you begin your treatment plan, you have the option to schedule regular video check-ins with your provider every 3 months. These sessions will help ensure that the plan is keeping you safe and effectively managing your health.