HIV PrEP in Cedar Park, Texas - Pride Family Medicine

HIV PrEP in Cedar Park

We offer the latest in PrEP medications to keep you and your partners safe from HIV.

Lower your risk of contracting HIV

Have questions? Give us a call today to talk to the lovely staff at Pride Family Medicine!

Treatment Details

HIV PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis)

PrEP is "pre-exposure prophylaxis" meaning you take a medication to prevent a disease. HIV PrEP with either daily pills or every other month injections of anti-viral medications such as Descovy, Truvada, or Apretude are more than 99% effective at preventing HIV infections when taken as prescribed. We have the expertise to help you make informed decisions about how to protect yourself from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections(STIs).

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What is HIV PrEP?

PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is when HIV treatment medications are given to an HIV negative person to reduce the risk of contracting the virus. The CDC recommends that all sexually active adults and adolescents discuss PrEP with a knowledgeable healthcare provider.

Do you need a prescription for PrEP?

PrEP is prescribed by a qualified 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.

How does PrEP work?

PrEP prevents HIV infections by preventing the HIV virus from replicating in your body if you are exposed. These are the same medications used to treat people living with HIV and generally have few side effects once you have been on the medication for a short period. It is very important that you be tested for HIV regularly while taking PrEP as the medications used are not complete treatment regimens.

How effective is PrEP?

PrEP is more than 99% effective at preventing new HIV infections when taken as prescribed. Condoms, regular testing for other STIs, and talking to your partners about their status are also good ways at reducing your risk of acquiring HIV.

How should PrEP be taken?

There are now several highly effective ways to take PrEP. Daily pills, every other month injections, and “On demand” or “2-1-1” are all options to manage your risk. During your appointment you can discuss what method is best for you with a provider.

What are the side effects of PrEP?

The side effects of PrEP medications depend on the type but are usually mild and go away after a short time after starting the medications. The most common side effects are an upset stomach for pills and injection site pain for injectable PrEP. There can be an increased risk for kidney or bone problems for some people. Your individual risk for side effects is something you will discuss with a provider before starting PrEP.