HIV
Prevention
The Bottom Line
Supporting individuals with HIV is just one part of the equation. By taking proactive measures, we can work towards eliminating new cases altogether.
Ways to Prevent HIV
- Condom usage
- Abstinence from penetrative sex
- Routinely testing for HIV
- PrEP
There are effective medications, such as prescribed PrEP and post-exposure medication (PEP), which can significantly lower your risk of contracting HIV. Plus, for those who qualify, these medications may even be available free of charge. Sounds like a win-win, right?
Stop HIV Today!
LET’S GET PrEP-PED
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, has proven highly effective, contributing to an 8% decline in new tranmissions between 2015 and 2019. As of 2020, over 300,000 individuals in the U.S. have been prescribed PrEP, marking significant progress in HIV prevention efforts.
“On-demand” PrEP, also referred to as PrEP 2-1-1, offers a dosing alternative tailored to individuals with sporadic sexual activity. Instead of daily intake, this method involves taking two pills 2-24 hours before sex, followed by one pill 24 hours after the initial dose and another 24 hours after the second dose.
PrEP offers flexibility, available in daily pill form, injections every two months, or as directed by a healthcare provider. Its mechanism involves generating antibodies that obstruct the enzyme necessary for the replication of the HIV virus.
When taken as prescribed,
PrEP PREVENTS HIV TRANSMISSION 99% OF THE TIME.
While the PrEP 2-1-1 dosing regimen lacks FDA approval and is not endorsed by the CDC, scientific research indicates its effectiveness in protecting gay and bisexual men during condomless anal sex. It’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider to determine whether PrEP 2-1-1 aligns with your needs and circumstances.
PrEP IS EASY TO GET!
Do you have Prescription Insurance? Inquire with your doctor about PrEP. Most insurance plans cover PrEP with minimal or no out-of-pocket costs, and many primary care providers are authorized to prescribe it.
No Prescription Insurance? The US Department of Health & Human Services offers free medication to numerous individuals taking preventive measures against HIV through its Ready, Set, PrEP initiative. Once you obtain a prescription from your healthcare provider, visit the Ready, Set, PrEP website and complete an eligibility form. Click here and here for additional resources to access PrEP at minimal or no cost.
Even if you don’t believe PrEP is necessary for you, consult your doctor! According to the CDC, fewer than 25% of those who could benefit from PrEP have a prescription. If everyone plays a role, we can significantly impact the fight against the HIV epidemic.
STOP HIV!
If you’ve had a high-risk exposure to HIV within the past 72 hours, there’s still an opportunity for preventive measures. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an antiretroviral medication for HIV-negative individuals following a recent, single high-risk exposure. PEP can shield you from HIV transmission by halting the virus’s replication in your body.
Examples of Exposure:
- Sexual contact, such as a condom break with a partner of unknown HIV status or a partner with HIV who is not undetectable.
- Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injecting equipment.
- Sexual assault.
Starting PEP medication within 72 hours of exposure can prevent HIV transmission.
Prompt and decisive action is crucial if you suspect or are aware of HIV exposure. Seeking medical assistance and commencing PEP treatment within 36 hours of exposure is optimal, although it remains effective up to 72 hours post-exposure. Once initiated, the medication should be taken consistently for 28 days, ensuring no missed doses.
Various healthcare providers, including emergency medicine physicians, can typically prescribe PEP. If you can’t see your primary physician within 72 hours, seek emergency care.
It’s important to note that PEP is an emergency medication and should not serve as a routine HIV prevention solution. For individuals consistently at high risk of exposure, PrEP is the recommended option for maintaining safety and protection from HIV.
For additional resources on accessing PrEP at minimal or no cost, click here, here, or here.