PrEP choices

IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY HEARD OF IT, PREP (PREEXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS) IS A SAFE, AND HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PREVENTION STRATEGY THAT USES PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION TO PROTECT AGAINST HIV. WHEN PREP FIRST CAME ABOUT NEARLY TEN YEARS AGO, TAKING IT DAILY FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD WAS THE RECOMMENDATION. SINCE THEN, RESEARCH HAS FOUND THAT THERE ARE MORE OPTIONS – PREP CAN NOW BE TAKEN DAILY, ON DEMAND OR PERIODICALLY.

Daily PrEP: Also called Classic PrEP, this method involves taking one pill once a day for an extended period. It’s a simple approach that suits people who like the routine of daily dosing. Daily PrEP offers protection and peace of mind in the event of any expected or unexpected hook up. Daily PrEP is suitable for all genders and sexualities. On Demand PrEP: Also called Event Based PrEP, on demand PrEP is suitable for those wanting protection for just a day or two. With on demand PrEP, you only have to start taking pills a few hours before sex, but it requires carefully timing the next few doses. PrEP on demand is only suitable for cisgender men. Periodic PrEP: If you don’t want or need to take PrEP every day – but you want more than just a day or two of protection – then Periodic PrEP is the go. Periodic PrEP provides protection over a short to moderate time frame – like a holiday or festival. Like Daily PrEP, Periodic PrEP works for all genders and sexualities.

PrEP can only protect against HIV when used the right way, and the three methods above all differ in terms of dosage times, amounts and personal suitability. So, it’s important to get support from a prescribing health professional who will help you decide the method that suits your needs and circumstance. If you live in Tasmania, check pages 3 for a list of PrEP savvy doctors as provided by Sexual Health Service Tasmania.

Whether you choose PrEP daily, on demand or periodic, it’s important to see your PrEP prescriber every three months for HIV and STI testing. If you aren’t using condoms for casual sex, then it’s especially important as the likelihood of having an STI will be much higher. Remember, PrEP is more than a pill. With support from your doctor, PrEP is a complete program for managing all aspects of your sexual health.