PrEP FOR HIV PREVENTION
MOONEE PONDS
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a groundbreaking HIV prevention method that plays a crucial role in our ongoing efforts to eliminate HIV. Since being listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in April 2018, it has become widely accessible to almost everyone!
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Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) Moonee Ponds
What is PrEP?
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It involves HIV-negative individuals taking antiretroviral medication to protect themselves from HIV infection. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective in preventing HIV.
Unlike PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), which is taken after a potential exposure to HIV, PrEP must be started before any potential exposure.
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To begin PrEP, you must first test negative for HIV, which is why an HIV test is required before starting the medication. It’s also important to get tested for other STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, and to assess your kidney health. Your PrEP provider will guide you through this process during your initial appointment. After that, regular check-ups every three months are recommended.
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While PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV, it does not protect against other STIs. If you’re concerned about STIs, consider using additional preventive measures like condoms.
Who is PrEP for?
PrEP is recommended for individuals at higher risk of contracting HIV. You might be at risk if you:
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Are a cis or transgender man, or a transgender woman, who has anal sex with men and does not consistently use condoms.
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Have male sexual partners who engage in anal sex with men.
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Are a heterosexual person with an HIV-positive partner and want to conceive.
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Have an HIV-positive partner who has not achieved an undetectable viral load and do not always use condoms.
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Are someone who injects drugs.
Daily, On-Demand, or Periodic – How Should I Take PrEP?
When PrEP was first introduced, daily dosing was the standard recommendation. However, research has since identified other effective dosing strategies.
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Today, PrEP can be taken daily, on-demand, or periodically. The same medication, just a different regimen. Explore our PrEP dosing options to see which one suits you best.
Daily PrEP
aking PrEP daily is suitable for anyone. It’s straightforward—one pill a day for ongoing protection.
Daily PrEP is ideal for those who prefer not to plan their sexual encounters, have an active sex life, or favor a routine dosing schedule.
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For cis men who have sex with men:
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Start with 2 pills (double dose) at least 2 hours before sex.
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Continue with 1 pill every 24 hours thereafter.
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To stop, take 1 pill daily for 2 days after your last sexual encounter. If you have sex during this period, the 2-day countdown resets.
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For others, including trans individuals who have sex with gay, bisexual, or queer men:
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Start with 1 pill daily for 7 days before sex.
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To stop, take 1 pill daily for 28 days after your last sexual encounter. If you have sex during this period, the 28-day countdown resets.
On-Demand PrEP
On-demand PrEP is currently recommended only for cis men who have sex with other men, as research on its efficacy in other groups is limited.
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On-demand PrEP is a good option for those who have infrequent sex or can plan sexual activity at least 2 hours in advance. If you don’t need daily protection or are concerned about side effects, on-demand PrEP might be suitable for you.
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For on-demand PrEP, timing is crucial:
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Take 2 pills (double dose) between 2-24 hours before sex.
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Follow with 1 pill 24 hours later.
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Take another pill 24 hours after that.
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If you continue having sex, take 1 pill daily until 2 days after your last sexual encounter.
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Consult your prescribing doctor if you’re considering on-demand PrEP to ensure you understand the timing.
PrEP Moonee Ponds
Our doctors see patients from all over North Melbourne including Moonee Ponds, Ascot Vale, Aberfeldie, Essendon, Brunswick West, Flemington, Maribyrnong, Essendon West, Neddrie, Essendon North, Strathmore, Pascoe Vale South, Coburg, Brunswick, Brunswick East, Carlton North, Kensington and Maidstone.