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Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

Learn about the steps you can take to prevent acquiring HIV and what you can do if you have been exposed to it, with pre- and post-exposure treatments.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

PrEP is a once daily medication for HIV negative individuals to reduce the risk of HIV infection. Currently, there are two FDA-approved oral medications for PrEP. Both are single pills that include combinations of two anti-HIV drugs. In December 2021, the FDA approved Apretude®, an every two month intramuscular injection for PrEP.

Oral PrEP:

  • Truvada® is for all individuals at risk of getting HIV weighing ≥35 kg (77 lbs.).
  • Descovy® is for all individuals weighing ≥35 kg (77 lbs.) to reduce the risk of HIV infection, excluding individuals at risk from receptive vaginal sex (e.g., women) because its effectiveness in this population has not been evaluated yet, and studies are underway among women.

Injectional Long-Acting PrEP:

  • Apretude® is for all individuals at risk of getting HIV sexually, weighing at least 35 kg (77 lbs).

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

PEP is a medication taken after potential exposure to HIV through sex or through sharing needles or syringes.