PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is medication for people who do not have HIV and want protection before a possible HIV exposure. PrEP may be a good option if you want extra protection, have a partner with HIV, have a partner whose HIV status is unknown, have multiple partners, have had a recent STI, or want a reliable HIV prevention plan.

How effective is PrEP? 

When taken as prescribed, PrEP greatly reduces the chance of getting HIV from sex. CDC clinical guidance states that oral and injectable PrEP reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken as prescribed.

VURA can help you understand PrEP medication options, including: 

Daily oral PrEP - A pill taken daily. 

Injectable PrEP - A long-acting injection option for eligible patients. 

Follow-up and lab monitoring - PrEP care usually includes HIV testing, kidney/liver-related labs when needed, STI testing, and routine follow-up. 

CDC guidance lists daily oral PrEP options and injectable cabotegravir PrEP, with injectable PrEP started with two initial injections one month apart and then every two months.

PrEP does not replace STI testing 

PrEP helps prevent HIV, but it does not prevent other STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis. Routine STI testing is still important.

Is PrEP right for me? 

Ask VURA if PrEP may be right for you. 

Our team can help you understand your options and connect you to care based on your needs, labs, medical history, and prevention goals.