Prep: FAQs
Q. What is Prep?
A: PrEP is short for “Pre-exposure prophylaxis.” PrEP is a pill that you take once a day and can help prevent HIV infection in people who don’t have HIV but who are at high risk of becoming infected with HIV. When someone is exposed to HIV through sex or injection drug use, these medicines can work to keep the virus from establishing a permanent infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified that “PrEP has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection in people who are at high risk by up to 92%. PrEP is much less effective if it is not taken consistently.”
Q. WHY CONSIDER PREP?
A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified approximately 1.2 million people at risk for contracting HIV in the United States. Studies have shown that PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90% when used consistently. Among people who inject drugs, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV by more than 70% when used consistently. For more detailed reports, please visit the CDC.
Q. WHO IS CONSIDERED HIGH RISK OF BECOMING INFECTED WITH HIV?
A: According to HIV.gov, “HIV can affect anyone regardless of sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender or age. However, certain groups are at higher risk for HIV and merit special consideration because of particular risk factors. “
Q. IS THE RISK OF HIV DIFFERENT FOR DIFFERENT PEOPLE?
A: Some groups of people in the United States are more likely to get HIV than others for various reasons - including where they live, the status of their sex partners, and their own personal risk behaviors. For detailed statistics on HIV, you may refer to CDC’s fact sheet.
Q. IS PREP SAFE?
A: PrEP can cause nausea in some people, but the side effect subsides over time. According to the CDC, no serious side effects have been observed, and these side effects aren’t life threatening. If you are taking PrEP, tell your health care provider about any side effects that are severe or do not go away.
Q. DO I NEED A PRESCRIPTION FOR PREP?
A: Yes, before going on PrEP you will need to see a health care provider. Providers who are familiar with PrEP will ask you questions to determine if you are good candidate for PrEP. Your provider will also run labwork to test for STI’s, HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and pregnancy (if female).
If you need assistance finding a health care provider, please call our customer service line and a CMED employee will be happy to link you to available resources in your area.
Q. HOW MUCH DOES PREP COST?
A: The cost of PrEP is covered by many health insurance plans. There is also a commercial medication assistance program that provides free PrEP to people with limited income and no insurance.
If you need financial assistance, please call our customer service line and a CMED employee will be happy to connect you with the right resources.