PrEP overview

Overview

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medicine that people at high risk for HIV take to prevent getting the virus. It is a daily pill that greatly lowers the chance of HIV infection if taken correctly.

PrEP is becoming more well-known and used around the world, but not everyone who could benefit from it has access yet.

PrEP is recommended for anyone at high risk for HIV, including people with an HIV-positive partner, people who have multiple sex partners without using condoms, and people who inject drugs.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• PrEP itself does not cause symptoms, but some people may have mild side effects like nausea, headache, or tiredness when starting the medicine. These usually go away within the first few weeks.

Causes

Main causes

• PrEP is not a disease; it is a prevention tool. People take it because they are at risk of HIV exposure.

Risk factors

• Having a sexual partner who is living with HIV and has a detectable viral load.
• Not using condoms consistently with partners whose HIV status is unknown.
• Sharing needles or syringes for drug use.
• Having had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the past 6 months.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you think you have been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours, ask about emergency PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis).
• If you develop flu-like symptoms after a possible exposure (fever, sore throat, rash, swollen glands).

Book a routine appointment if:

• Talk to your healthcare provider if you think you might benefit from PrEP. They can discuss your risk and test you for HIV and kidney function.
• Get tested regularly for HIV and other STIs if you are sexually active.

Diagnosis

There is no diagnosis for PrEP itself. Instead, your doctor will assess your risk for HIV and confirm you are HIV-negative before prescribing PrEP.

Tests that may be done

• An HIV test to confirm you do not have the virus.
• A blood test to check your kidney function.
• Screening for hepatitis B and other STIs.
• A pregnancy test if you could become pregnant.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will explain how to take PrEP, discuss side effects, and tell you about follow-up appointments (every 3 months) to repeat HIV tests and check kidney health.

Treatment

PrEP is a daily oral medicine (a pill taken once a day). There is also an event-driven regimen for some people (taking pills before and after sex). Your doctor will help you choose the right schedule. PrEP is not a cure for HIV and does not replace condoms.

Self-care at home

• Take your PrEP pill every day at the same time to build up protection. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Use condoms to also protect against other STIs and pregnancy.
• Get tested for HIV every 3 months while on PrEP.
• Stay in regular contact with your healthcare provider.

Medical treatments

PrEP is a prescription medicine. It is typically a single tablet taken daily. Your doctor may also monitor your kidney function and test for HIV at every visit. If you have hepatitis B, your doctor will discuss how PrEP may affect that condition.

When is surgery considered?

PrEP does not require surgery.

Living with this condition

Taking PrEP means adding a daily pill to your routine. Many people set a phone reminder or keep their pills with their toothbrush. It is important to keep up with regular doctor visits and HIV tests.

Lifestyle tips

• Build a daily habit: take your pill at the same time each day.
• Practice safer sex, including condom use, to reduce overall risk.
• Avoid sharing needles or drug equipment.
• Talk openly with your sexual partner(s) about prevention.

Diet and exercise

PrEP can be taken with or without food. Stick to a healthy diet and exercise as part of your overall well-being. No special diet is needed.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Starting PrEP can bring up feelings about HIV risk and relationships. It is normal to feel anxious or stressed. Speaking with a counselor or a trusted friend can help.

Prevention

PrEP is itself a prevention method. It does not prevent other infections or pregnancy. The best protection combines PrEP, condoms, regular testing, and open communication with partners.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for HIV, but vaccines for hepatitis B and HPV are recommended. Talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated.

Screening programmes

Regular HIV and STI screening is important for anyone at risk. Your doctor will tell you how often to get tested (usually every 3 months while on PrEP).

Complications

If left untreated

• If you stop taking PrEP or do not take it as prescribed, you lose protection and can become infected with HIV.
• HIV infection is a serious lifelong condition that requires daily medication to manage.

Long-term outlook

PrEP is a powerful tool that has helped many people stay HIV-negative. Taken correctly, it offers high protection. If you do get HIV, modern treatments can help you live a long, healthy life. The key is to stay informed and connected to care.

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