Pre-Exposure
Prophylaxis
-(PrEP)
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention method for individuals at high risk of contracting HIV.
What is PrEP?
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) refers to taking a medication to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV. It is primarily used by HIV-negative individuals who are at high risk of being exposed to HIV.
When taken consistently, PrEP has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection through sex by over 99%, and it can also be highly effective for people who inject drugs.
Who should consider PrEP?
PrEP is recommended for individuals who are at high risk for HIV exposure. This includes:
Individuals in continuous intimate relationships with HIV-positive partners
Individuals who use injectable substances
Men engaging in intimacy with other men
People who have a history of STIs
Individuals engaging in unprotected intimacy with partners HIV status
Individuals involved in the commercial intimacy industry
Transgender individuals facing health Risks Protection, prevention, consistency
How to start PrEP
Fill out a form on Curaa:
Begin with filling out a social history, medical history, insurance ID, and lab results (must be taken within 2 weeks) form. Then either text or talk to a doctor on a video call.
HIV testing
Before starting PrEP, you must be tested for HIV to ensure that you are HIV-negative. You’ll also need regular follow-up HIV tests while on PrEP to monitor your status. We can refer you to a lab near you at no cost.
Medications delivered to your doorstep:
Once you're approved, our partner pharmacy will deliver the medication to your home to start your PrEP treatment.
How does PrEP work?
PrEP works by preventing HIV from replicating in the body. The medications in PrEP (tenofovir and emtricitabine) block the HIV virus from multiplying once it enters the body, giving the immune system time to fight off the virus.
Oral PrEP:
When taken daily, PrEP maintains a steady level of the drug in your bloodstream, providing continuous protection against HIV. If you are exposed to HIV during sexual activity or through sharing needles, the medication prevents the virus from establishing an infection. This medication is taken daily.
Injectable PrEP:
Cabenuva, the long-acting injectable version of PrEP, is administered as an injection every 1 or 2 months (depending on the prescribed regimen). This provides a more convenient option for people who may have trouble remembering to take a daily pill. This medication has to be injected by a medical professional in a clinic or similar setting.
How effective is PrEP?
When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective:
Oral PrEP (Truvada, Descovy):
Studies have shown that oral PrEP reduces the risk of HIV infection by more than 99% when taken consistently. However, its effectiveness decreases if doses are missed or if it’s not taken daily.
Injectable PrEP (Cabenuva, Apretude):
Cabenuva has been shown to be 99% effective at preventing HIV when taken as directed (one injection every 1 to 2 months).
Side effects of PrEP
Most people tolerate PrEP well, but like any medication, it can have side effects. Common side effects of PrEP include:
Nausea
Headache
Fatigue
Upset Stomach
These side effects are usually mild and go away after the first few weeks of taking the medication.
Kidney Problems: PrEP can cause a slight reduction in kidney function, which is why kidney health is regularly monitored during treatment.
Bone Density Loss: Long-term use of Truvada may cause a slight decrease in bone density, although this is generally reversible after discontinuing the medication.
For injectable PrEP (Cabenuva)
potential side effects can include:
Injection site pain
or irritation
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle or joint pain
Serious side effects from injectable PrEP are rare but may include allergic reactions or liver issues.
How to get PrEP
PrEP is available by prescription from a healthcare provider. Here’s how to get started:
Healthcare providers
PrEP can be prescribed by your primary care doctor, a sexual health clinic, or a specialist in HIV care. Some clinics even offer online consultations.
Insurance coverage
In many places, PrEP is covered by insurance plans. Medicaid and some state programs in the U.S. may cover the cost for eligible individuals. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, there are patient assistance programs available to help with the cost of PrEP.
Free or low-cost clinics
Many public health clinics and non-profit organizations offer PrEP at reduced costs or even for free for those who qualify.
Pharmacy care
delivered by experts
“No one should worry about cost when thinking of health. Curaa has helped my patients by making their meds more affordable and accessible. I trust Curaa for their reliable service and wish them all the success.”
Dr Rewa Sandhu MD, MPH
