If you’re sexually active, it’s normal to think about how to stay protected from HIV. PrEP is a preventive medication that can reduce your risk of getting HIV from sex by up to 99% when taken as prescribed.
Many people are surprised to learn there’s no barrier to starting PrEP medication. It’s available for anyone who wants a little extra peace of mind about their sexual health. Let’s explore what PrEP does, what your options are, and how to get started.
Understanding PrEP — A Simple Overview
PrEP, short for pre-exposure prophylaxis, helps your body block HIV if you’re exposed, before the virus has a chance to take hold. If you’re at risk for HIV from sex or injection drug use, PrEP provides an added layer of protection and control over your health.
What Does PrEP Do?
PrEP stops HIV from replicating in the body in two ways. First, it helps the body produce antibodies that block HIV. Then it blocks the enzymes HIV needs to replicate itself after exposure. Taking PrEP keeps you proactive about your sexual health instead of worrying about exposure after the fact.
Different Types of PrEP HIV Medications
You can get PrEP HIV medication as pills or shots. Currently, there are two pill forms and a long-acting injectable form of PrEP approved by the FDA.
Pill Options — Truvada®and Descovy®
If you prefer a simple daily routine, oral PrEP is an easy and effective way to stay protected. There are two FDA-approved pill options available:
- Truvada® (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate): Approved for people at risk for HIV through sex or injection drug use.
- Descovy® (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide): Approved for sexually active men and transgender women at risk of HIV from sex.
Injectable Option — Yeztugo (Lenacapavir)
Yeztugo® (lenacapavir) is a twice-yearly injection for those at risk of HIV through sex. You’ll start with two short days of starter pills to build up medication levels, then receive just two injections a year to stay protected. Your healthcare provider will help you decide whether daily pills or twice-yearly shots fit your routine best.
Who Should Consider Taking PrEP?
PrEP is for people who don’t have HIV but are at risk for exposure. Consider PrEP if you’re sexually active and:
- You don’t consistently use condoms
- You’ve been diagnosed with an STD within the past six months
- You have a sexual partner with HIV
- You frequently change sexual partners
- You’ve been prescribed PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) multiple times following exposure scares
- You have sex with people with unknown HIV status
- You’re considering getting pregnant with a partner with HIV
Is PrEP Right for You?
PrEP can be a good choice for anyone concerned about their HIV risk. When taken as indicated, PrEP reduces your risk of HIV from sex by about 99%. The best way to know if PrEP is right for you is to speak with a healthcare provider about the benefits.
How to Get Started With PrEP (Even Virtually)
MISTR makes accessing PrEP easy, private, and judgment-free. Our virtual appointments, at-home tests, and prescription delivery make it easy to take control of your sexual health. At MISTR, our only goal is empowering you with the information and medications that keep you protected.
Accessing PrEP Through MISTR
Reach out to MISTR today to begin your PrEP journey. Forget about multiple clinic visits; we let you check your HIV status at home. Everything is 100% private and confidential. MISTR’s health experts are also here to answer all of your questions about sexual health and STDs other than HIV (without grilling you about your sex life).
Get connected to the telehealth platform that makes managing your sexual health easy and private. MISTR can prescribe PrEp to you virtually in no time at all. Start now by signing up with MISTR.