PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a daily or long-acting medication strategy that helps prevent HIV before you are exposed. It uses antiretroviral medicines—the same type used to treat HIV—to build a protective barrier in your body. When taken consistently, PrEP stops the virus from multiplying and reduces the chances of infection.
At Spectrum Medical, we offer both daily oral PrEP and long-acting injectable PrEP. Our care team will help you find the option that works best for your lifestyle, health needs, and goals.
What is PrEP?
PrEP uses antiretrovirals, the same drugs used to fight HIV, to “preload” your body with protection before potential exposure to the virus. This helps your body stop HIV from multiplying, preventing an infection.
Studies prove PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 99%. PrEP is a good choice if you:
- Are sexually active
- Are HIV negative
- Have an HIV-positive partner
- Use drugs through injection or share needles
- Had an STI in the last six months
- Use PrEP regularly
- Don’t always use condoms
PrEP Side Effects
PrEP, like any medicine, can have side effects. Common ones include nausea, reduced appetite, headaches, muscle pain, rash, and fever. Most people using PrEP don’t experience any side effects, and they often improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Why Take PrEP?
PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as indicated. PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken as prescribed. Among people who inject drugs, it reduces the risk by at least 74% when taken as prescribed. PrEP is much less effective when it isn’t taken consistently.
Is PrEP Right for You?
PrEP may be a good fit if you’ve tested negative for HIV and any of the following apply to you:
- You have a sexual partner living with HIV
- You don’t always use condoms
- You’ve had a recent STI
- You have multiple sexual partners
- You inject drugs or share needles
- You’re part of a community where HIV is more commo
- You want extra protection and peace of mind
Trying to get pregnant with a partner who has HIV? PrEP may also help protect you and your baby before and during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding. Talk to your provider at Spectrum Medical about what’s right for you.
How well does PrEP work?
Oral PrEP is most effective when taken daily, reducing the risk of HIV from sex by about 99%, and by at least 74% for those who inject drugs. Consistently sticking to your medication schedule is important for maximum effectiveness.
Injectable PrEP (Apretude) is recommended for individuals at risk through sex, but its effectiveness for those assigned female at birth with receptive vaginal sex is still under study. Consequently, Descovy is not recommended for cisgender women; Truvada remains the primary option for this group.
While PrEP is highly effective, it is not 100% guaranteed, and rare cases of HIV infection can occur, potentially leading to medication resistance. A healthcare provider can assist in developing a treatment plan if needed.
For the best protection, use PrEP in combination with other prevention methods like condoms, regular STI testing, and open discussions with partners. At Spectrum Medical, we’re dedicated to supporting your personalized prevention plan.
Types of PrEP and Insurance Coverage
PrEP is available in two forms: a daily pill and a long-acting injection.
Daily Pill Options
There are currently two FDA-approved daily pills for PrEP. Both contain a combination of antiretroviral medicines that help prevent HIV when taken consistently.
- Truvada – a once-daily pill for people of all genders and sexual orientations.
- Descovy – a once-daily pill approved for men and transgender women, but not currently recommended for people at risk through vaginal sex.
Injectable Option
The FDA has also approved one injectable option. This option is ideal for people who prefer not to take a daily pill or want a more discreet alternative.
- Apretude – a long-acting injection given every two months, recommended for people at risk through sex.
At Spectrum Medical, your provider will work with you to choose the option that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
Is PrEP Covered by Insurance?
Yes, in most cases. Under the Affordable Care Act, PrEP is considered a preventive service and must be covered by nearly all health insurance plans at no cost to you. That includes:
- The medication itself
- Routine clinic visits
- Required lab testing
This applies to most private insurance plans, including those through an employer or the Healthcare.gov Marketplace, and to Medicaid expansion programs in many states.
Medicare does cover PrEP through Part D prescription plans, but some cost-sharing may still apply. If you’re uninsured or concerned about costs, Spectrum Medical can connect you with patient assistance programs that help cover or eliminate the cost of care.
What should you do if you think that PrEP can help you?
If you believe PrEP might be right for you, it’s important to start by speaking with a healthcare provider who understands your needs. At Spectrum Medical, our compassionate team of LGBTQIA2S+ affirming providers is ready to help you make an informed decision that takes into account your lifestyle, health history, and goals.
PrEP is not available over the counter; it requires a prescription from a medical professional. During your appointment, your provider will explain how PrEP works, answer any questions you may have without judgment, and assess whether it’s a suitable option for your HIV prevention strategy.
Before starting PrEP, you will need to take an HIV test to confirm that you are HIV-negative. This test must be conducted right before you begin the medication. If you’re eligible, we can often complete your screening and issue your first prescription during the same visit, making the process simple and stress-free.
How often should you take PrEP?
Oral PrEP: People taking oral PrEP (Truvada or Descovy) need to take their PrEP pills every day. This is the only CDC- and Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-recommended way to take oral PrEP for HIV prevention.
Some people may take PrEP “on demand” when they think they may acquire HIV. This method of taking PrEP for HIV prevention is not recommended by the CDC or FDA and should only be considered if it is recommended by your health care provider.
On-demand PrEP relies on a “2-1-1” schedule, in which you take two pills 2 to 24 hours before sex, one pill 24 hours after the first dose, and another pill 24 hours after the second dose.
Injectable PrEP: If you are taking Apretude, do not miss any injections (every two months). PrEP is much less effective when it is not taken as prescribed, which increases your risk of getting infected with HIV and acquiring HIV drug resistance.
What else should you know about PrEP?
Taking PrEP is a powerful step in protecting yourself from HIV, and combining it with other prevention strategies can help you stay even healthier.
Using condoms while on PrEP adds an extra layer of protection. While PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV, condoms help protect against other sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea and chlamydia. Together, they give you the confidence to enjoy intimacy with more peace of mind.
If you inject drugs, practicing safer use is also important. PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV from injection drug use, but avoiding shared needles or equipment remains essential to lowering your overall risk. If you need support or resources around harm reduction, Spectrum Medical is here to help.
Staying on track with your care is key. You’ll check in with your provider every three months for an HIV test and routine labs to make sure PrEP continues to work safely for you. These visits are a great opportunity to talk about your health, ask questions, and get the support you need.
If your routine changes, if you’re having trouble staying consistent, or if you’re thinking about stopping PrEP, we’re here to help you figure out what’s best for your health. And if you do test positive for HIV, Spectrum Medical will transition you into treatment with the same respect and expert care.
Whatever your journey looks like, Spectrum Medical is here with you—every step, every question, every choice.
Schedule Your PrEP Consultation Today
PrEP is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent HIV, and at Spectrum Medical, we make starting it simple, supportive, and personalized to your needs.
Our team offers expert, judgment-free care in a safe and inclusive environment. Whether you’re exploring PrEP for the first time, looking for a more discreet option, or navigating insurance and cost questions, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
When you schedule your consultation, you’ll get:
- A one-on-one visit with a provider who specializes in HIV prevention
- Same-day HIV and STI testing
- Help choosing between daily or injectable PrEP
- Support accessing insurance or assistance programs to keep costs low
- Ongoing care with quarterly visits and lab work—all in one trusted place
Take control of your health and your future with a care team that sees and supports all of you.
Book your PrEP consultation with Spectrum Medical today and take a powerful step toward staying HIV-free.