PrEP: All the information you need before taking the medication

So we’ve all seen the commercials and have heard our friends talk about being on PREp, but for those who don’t know what it is, it may be stigmatized by being a drug that enables unprotected sex, but that is the farthest from the truth.

So what is PREP?

Properly known as Pre-exposure prophylaxis, it is a preventive medication that involves taking antiretroviral meds to prevent HIV infection in individuals who are at high risk. The concept behind PrEP is to provide a protective barrier against the HIV virus before exposure can occur, similar to how vaccines prevent certain infections. So when you go for your Flu vaccine to prevent you from getting sick during Flu season, PREP operates in a similar capacity.

When taken daily as prescribed, PrEP has shown a high effective rate in reducing the risk of HIV transmission. It is also recommended to be used alongside other preventive measures like condom use and regular testing for sexually transmitted infections.

Image by Richard Jesus from Pixabay

Risks of Not Using PrEP:

The decision to not to use PrEP can leave individuals vulnerable to HIV infection, particularly if they engage in behaviors that carry a high risk of transmission. So without taking PrEP, here are some risks that one can face.

1. Increased Risk of HIV Infection: Without PrEP, individuals engaging in high-risk behaviors such as condomless sex face a significantly higher chance of contracting HIV. Studies have shown that PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 99% when taken consistently.
2. Delayed Diagnosis and Treatment: Not using PrEP can result in a delayed diagnosis of HIV infection. Early diagnosis is crucial for timely initiation of HIV treatment with a DR, which can improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to others.
3. Psychological Impact: Fear of HIV infection can cause significant anxiety and stress in individuals who do not use PrEP but engage in behaviors that put them at risk. This fear can affect your mental health and quality of life.

Benefits of PrEP with Statistics:

The benefits of PrEP extend beyond individual protection to public health outcomes. Here are some key benefits supported by statistics:

1. High Effectiveness: Clinical trials and studies have shown the high effectiveness of PrEP in preventing HIV transmission. According to the CDC, when taken consistently, PrEP reduces the risk of HIV infection through sex by about 99% and among people who inject drugs by at least 74%.
2. Reduction in New HIV Infections: PrEP has played a significant role in reducing new HIV infections, especially among high-risk populations. Studies estimate that widespread use of PrEP could prevent tens of thousands of new HIV infections annually in the United States alone.
3. Improved Health Outcomes: Individuals on PrEP benefit from regular healthcare visits, including screenings for HIV and other STIs. This leads to early detection of infections and prompt treatment, ultimately improving overall health outcomes.
4. Cost-effectiveness: Despite the cost of medication, PrEP is considered cost-effective due to its potential to avert expensive HIV treatment and care. Investing in PrEP is estimated to be more economical in the long run compared to the lifetime cost of treating HIV.

It is amazing how far we have come in treating and preventing HIV transmission, with PrEP we are able to effectively counter the disease and keep ourselves safe. It is still important to practice safe sex, even if you are using PrEP. It is also important to consult with you doctor to see if PrEP is right for you as there are side effects including potential harm of the liver.

Consult with your Doctor for further information on this amazing potentially life saving medication.

RELATED: Drag Queen Ongina on What Being HIV-Positive Means Today