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PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is when HIV treatment is given to a HIV negative person to reduce the risk of contracting the virus. It usually given to those at high risk of contracting the virus such as those with a HIV positive sexual partner.
PrEP is prescribed by a qualified and registered healthcare provider that is trained in the treatment and can give you advice on how to take it and how to manage any side effects.
PrEP works like HIV treatment by reducing any virus from replicating in the body. To do this effectively the PrEP needs to be taken as prescribed so that there is enough of the treatment in the blood to prevent any virus from replicating.
PrEP can be up to 99.7% effective against infections if it is taken correctly but should always be taken with other safety measure like HIV treatment for the HIV positive partner and use of condoms if possible.
PrEP is usually taken as a tablet and the amount and times of when it should be taken depends on the specific type of PrEP your healthcare providers prescribes you.
PrEP is a combination of HIV treatments and may have similar side effects. Some people might not have any symptoms while a few can experience severe symptoms. Most people will experience mild symptoms that usually last a few days to weeks and then go away. The most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea , tiredness, sleeplessness, dry mouth and headaches. Your prescribing health care provider should explain to you the possible side effects and things to look out for depending on your specific combination of HIV treatments.
Insurance will often cover the cost of PrEP under the Affordable Care Act guidelines.
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