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PrEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a method used to reduce the risk of contracting HIV in people most at risk.

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How is PrEP taken?

PrEP comes in tablet form to be taken by mouth.

Two methods are currently used to take PrEP

1

Continuous intake

(daily)

2

On-demand intake

(during sexual intercourse)

It is important to discuss both options with your healthcare professional to determine which best suits your needs. Taking PrEP also requires regular follow-up with your healthcare professional, 30 days after starting PrEP and then every 3 months thereafter, to ensure good tolerance of the medication.

How does PrEP work?

PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV by blocking the pathways the disease uses to transmit. To infect a person, HIV must use an entry point into the body to reach certain immune cells. Once in these cells, it replicates itself, then spreads throughout the body.

When PrEP is used, it prevents HIV from replicating in immune cells, thereby preventing the body from becoming infected.

What are the benefits of PrEP?

It protects people who do not use condoms for any reason whatsoever*
It reassures people who fear contracting HIV during sexual intercourse
It protects people who inject drugs and who are unable to use sterile or new equipment
It can be used during higher-risk periods (active sexual periods) and be interrupted during low-risk periods (periods of sexual inactivity).

*It should be noted that condoms are still recommended despite taking PrEP, as PrEP does not protect against STIs other than HIV

What are the side effects of PrEP?

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Headaches
Dizziness

PrEP side effects are uncommon, affecting about 1 to 10% of users. When present, they are often mild and temporary.

How effective is PrEP?

For anal sex where you are the receptive partner, 7 days of treatment are necessary for optimal effectiveness. During these 7 days, it is preferable to use a condom as additional protection. For vaginal sex, injectable drug use or drug use with shared equipment, it is preferable to wait 21 days for maximum effectiveness.

PrEP offers 95 to 99% protection against HIV.

Who is PrEP for?

PrEP is for HIV-negative individuals who are at high risk of HIV infection. This includes people in the following groups:

Individuals having unprotected vaginal or anal sex with an HIV-positive partner who is not on treatment or whose viral load is not suppressed
Individuals sharing drug injection equipment
Transgender individuals (men or women) who have had unprotected sex with people who meet the following criteria

They have contracted a sexually transmitted infection within the last year
They have used post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) more than once
They have scored high on an HIV risk assessment tool

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What does it mean to be HIV-negative?

The term HIV-negative simply means that an individual is free of HIV antigen-specific antibodies. They have therefore never been in contact with the AIDS virus.

All you need to know about PrEP

Do I need to use a condom?

Attention! PrEP provides protection against HIV, but does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (e.g., Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, Hepatitis, etc.)

How much does treatment cost in Quebec?

Without insurance, PrEP costs approximately $250/month.

If you are covered by RAMQ, the cost is $95.31/month.

If you are covered by private insurance, the cost is approximately $50/month.

A generic version of Truvada is available which contains the same two anti-HIV medications: tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and emtricitabine (FTC). Thanks to Descovy, a new molecule that replaces the original form, 85% of people with private insurance have access to treatment free of charge. Check with your insurance plan or pharmacist to confirm your coverage.

How long should I continue treatment?

You should take PrEP as long as you believe you are exposed to HIV or there is a risk of exposure.

What should I do if I forget a pill?

If you forget to take your medication, take it as soon as possible, unless the next dose is scheduled within 12 hours. In that case, wait for the scheduled time and then resume your regular schedule.

Do not double up on the medication, as you increase the risk of having more side effects without having more benefits.

Do I have to be 18 to take PrEP?

There is no age limit to receive PrEP, you just need to meet the eligibility criteria.

What blood work is required?

Blood tests will be necessary before starting PrEP and after the first month of treatment to ensure your body tolerates the medication well. A follow-up every 3 months will also be performed to ensure everything is going well.

TonTest, at your pace