Frequently Asked Questions About PrEP

About the PrEP Facts Group

• How do I post questions in this group?

• Can I send my questions privately to the group moderators?

What is PrEP and how does it work?

• What is PrEP?

• What is the difference between PrEP and Truvada?

• Why are Truvada and Descovy used for PrEP?

• Are there other medications I can use for PrEP?

• What is TasP and how is it different from PrEP?

How well does PrEP work?

• How effective is PrEP at preventing HIV?

• How effective is PrEP compared to condoms?

• If I use PrEP, do I have to use condoms?

• How soon after starting PrEP will I be protected? How long do I have to keep taking it to maintain that protection?

• Does taking PrEP mean I can’t get HIV?

• Has anyone ever contracted HIV despite taking PrEP as directed?

• When people say PrEP is 99% effective, what does that mean? Do I still have a 1% chance of contracting HIV?

• Does PrEP protect against both HIV-1 and HIV-2?

• What about Truvada-resistant strains of HIV?

• Can I be an "HIV carrier" while I am HIV-negative?

• What about the Truvada lawsuit ads I'm seeing all over?

What about other STIs?

• What about other STIs?

• What about drug-resistant gonorrhea?

• Is PrEP causing an increase in the number of STIs?

• What can I do to reduce my risk of contracting STIs other than HIV?

• Is there a drug I can take to protect myself from STIs other than HIV?

How do I get PrEP?

• How can I find a provider in my area who will prescribe PrEP?

• My doctor hasn’t heard of PrEP or doesn't know a lot about it. Are there any resources that can help me communicate with my doctor about this?

• I live in a country where PrEP is not available. How can I get PrEP?

• Can I use generic drugs for PrEP? Do they work the same as the brand name drugs?

How do I take PrEP?

• How do I follow the daily PrEP regimen?

• How do I take PrEP 2-1-1 (also known as "on demand" or "event-driven" PrEP)?

• How can I check for possible drug interactions between PrEP and other drugs I'm taking?

• Can I take psyllium supplements while I am on PrEP?

• Do I have to take PrEP medication at the exact same time every day?

• Do I take the medication with or without food?

• What if I forget to take the medication at my regular time?

• How do I store Truvada and how long will it last?

• My medication is past the expiry date. Will it still project me from HIV?

• Why do some bottles contain only 245mg of drug when other bottles have 300mg?

• How can I avoid forgetting a dose?

• Is PrEP safe during pregnancy?

What are the side effects?

• What are the most common side effects and how long do they last?

• Does PrEP cause changes in kidney function?

• Does PrEP cause changes in bone density?

• Does PrEP cause a severe problem called lactic acidosis?

• Does PrEP cause weight gain?

• Does PrEP cause liver problems?

• Does Truvada cause changes in the distribution of body fat (lipodystrophy)?

How do I pay for PrEP?

• How much does PrEP cost?

• Are there financial assistance programs that can help me pay for PrEP?

• Does the manufacturer of Truvada offer financial assistance for PrEP?

• My pharmacy does not accept the Gilead Co-pay Card. Is there any way I can still get reimbursed for out-of-pocket costs?

What do I need to know about doctors, lab work, and so forth?

• What lab tests are recommended or required with PrEP?

• What if my doctor tells me to stop PrEP?

• What are some tips for stigma-free discussions of PrEP?