Reduce HIV transmission risk by 99%.
PrEP offers an effective way for individuals to prevent HIV infection from taking hold and spreading in the body. As an AAHIVM-certified practice, Spectrum Medical stands out as a leading provider of PrEP therapy in the Valley, offering ongoing management and care to help prevent HIV.
How does PrEP work?
PrEP utilizes antiretrovirals, the same medications used to fight HIV. This method involves “preloading” the body with these drugs before potential exposure to the virus. By doing so, PrEP helps prevent HIV from replicating, thereby stopping it from establishing an infection.
Is PrEP the right choice for you?
• Anyone who is sexually active and HIV-negative can benefit from PrEP. Talk to your provider to see if it’s right for you. PrEP is a good option for people who:
- Are sexually active
- Are HIV negative
- Have an HIV-positive partner
- Engage in drug injection or needle sharing
- Have experienced an STI in the past six months
- Have used PEP often
- Do not consistently use condoms
PrEP does not guard against other STIs, and having an active STI can increase the risk of contracting HIV. Combining PrEP with condom use is a smart strategy to improve protection.
If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding and at a high risk of HIV, PrEP may also protect both you and your baby from HIV transmission.
Are there side effects?
When starting PrEP, some people might experience mild initial side effects such as nausea, loss of appetite, headaches, fever, muscle pain, rash. These side effects improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. Many people taking PrEP don’t experience any side effects at all.
Medicare Now Covers PrEP at Spectrum Medical
The addition of PrEP to Medicare coverage is a big step forward in providing access to HIV prevention for everyone, particularly older adults and vulnerable populations who may have had trouble affording it in the past. By getting rid of out-of-pocket costs for PrEP medication, Medicare is removing a major barrier that has prevented many people from using this preventive measure.
This change in policy supports the U.S. government’s goal to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. Expanded coverage ensures that those at higher risk, including individuals over 50 who make up a growing percentage of new HIV diagnoses, can easily get PrEP.
What’s the next step?
Starting PrEP is a straightforward process. When you have your initial consultation at our central location or with our PrEPmobile clinic, available at events across Maricopa County, we will perform an HIV test, discuss exposure risks, and conduct additional screenings for other STIs and kidney function.
Spectrum Medical offers two convenient PrEP options: a daily oral pill and a bi-monthly injection. Regular provider visits are required for testing and prescription renewal, typically every three months. With our holistic approach, you and your provider will discuss which options work best for you.
