PrEP

What is PrEP?

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) are medications that helps prevent HIV infection if you’re exposed to the virus. When taken as prescribed, it is over 99% effective in preventing HIV.

What are my options?

Parkland offers all FDA-approved PrEP options to help prevent HIV. These include:

• Daily pill
• Injection given every 2 months
• Long-acting injection given every 6 months (just 2 shots a year)

During your first appointment, your provider will discuss each option with you, answer your questions, and help you choose the PrEP option that best fits your needs and lifestyle.

How much does PrEP cost?

PrEP is generally covered by all insurance plans with no copay. If you do not have insurance, you still can be started on PrEP through Parkland with no or minimal out-of-pocket cost.For more information, contact the STI Hotline. (see below)

Before starting PrEP:

Talk to your provider about the benefits of PrEP and whether PrEP can help you. Your labs will be checked before starting PrEP. You will be tested for:

• HIV
• Hepatitis B
• Kidney function
• Other sexually transmitted infections

You can only take PrEP if you are HIV-negative.

Some patients who take PrEP have upset stomach, decreased appetite, or a mild headache. These are often mild and go away within the first month.

Starting PrEP:

You and your provider will decide when you should start PrEP.

Your provider will prescribe PrEP for three months at a time. Men take PrEP for seven days and then they are protected from HIV. Women take PrEP for 20 days before they are protected from HIV. Plan to use condoms before and after starting PrEP. You are still at risk for other sexually transmitted diseases.

Monitoring on PrEP:

You will see your provider every three months while on PrEP. The checkup includes a discussion on side effects. The check up includes follow up tests for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. The repeat tests make sure you do not have a new exposure. Contact your provider right away if you have fevers, throat pain, muscle aches, rash, or swollen glands.

If I take PrEP, can I stop using condoms?

You should always use condoms while on PrEP. PrEP does not keep you from getting other sexually transmitted infections. Talk with your partners on how to stay protected.

Can I start and stop taking PrEP?

At each visit, talk to your provider about your HIV risk and whether to keep taking PrEP. If you decide to stop taking PrEP, please talk to your provider first.

Need more information? Don't hesitate— call and ask the STI Hotline

Get connected with nurses and providers who can answer questions, offer support, and guide next steps.

Contact us at 214-266-7837 from Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.