One pill once a day keeps you away from HIV

What is HIV PrEP? HIV PrEP is a medication that contains two antiretroviral drugs, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and emtricitabine (FTC). These drugs work together to prevent HIV from multiplying in the body, reducing the risk of infection. The two FDA-approved medications for HIV PrEP are Truvada and Descovy.

How to Take HIV PrEP The recommended dosing schedule for HIV PrEP is one pill once a day. It's important to take HIV PrEP consistently and correctly to ensure its effectiveness. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your regular time.

Side Effects of HIV PrEP Like any medication, HIV PrEP can have side effects. The most common side effects of HIV PrEP include nausea, headaches, and diarrhea. These side effects usually go away within a few weeks of starting the medication. However, in rare cases, HIV PrEP can cause more serious side effects, such as kidney problems and bone loss.

How to Manage Side Effects If you experience side effects from HIV PrEP, there are several things you can do to manage them. Taking HIV PrEP with food or before bed can help reduce nausea. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can help reduce the risk of kidney problems. If you're concerned about bone loss, talk to your healthcare provider about calcium and vitamin D supplements.

Who Should Take HIV PrEP? HIV PrEP is recommended for individuals who are at high risk of acquiring HIV, including:

1. People with a partner who is HIV-positive
2. Individuals who have sex with multiple partners, especially if they don't consistently use condoms
3. People who inject drugs and share needles or other equipment
4. Men who have sex with men (MSM), especially if they have multiple partners or engage in condomless anal sex
5. Transgender individuals who have anal sex without a condom, especially if they have multiple partners

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How effective is HIV PrEP? Studies have shown that HIV PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by up to 99% and from injection drug use by up to 74% when taken consistently and correctly.

2. How long does it take for HIV PrEP to work? It can take up to seven days of consistent use for HIV PrEP to reach maximum effectiveness.

3. Can HIV PrEP prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? No, HIV PrEP only prevents HIV infection. It's important to use condoms and other prevention methods to protect against other STIs.

4. How often do I need to see my healthcare provider while taking HIV PrEP? It's recommended to see your healthcare provider every three months for HIV testing and to monitor any side effects or other health concerns.

5. Can I stop taking HIV PrEP if I'm in a monogamous relationship? It's important to continue taking HIV PrEP as prescribed, even if you're in a monogamous relationship. HIV can still be transmitted within a monogamous relationship if one partner becomes infected outside of the relationship.

Conclusion HIV PrEP can be an effective tool in preventing the transmission of HIV. By taking HIV PrEP consistently and correctly, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection. If you're considering HIV PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to see if it's right for you. And if you're currently taking HIV PrEP and experiencing side effects, don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider about managing them.

For more details please visit https://www.careplusclinic.my/services-hiv-pep-prep

Contents

Emtricitabine 200 mg, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg 

 *ONLY WITH VALID PRESCRIPTION*

We offer a free E-prescription service, but it is contingent upon having a valid prescription. If you later request a refund because you cannot meet the requirements outlined in the "How To Take & Requirement" tab, a 5% administrative fee will apply. However, if we determine that you are not suitable for this medicine, the administrative fee will be waived.