Since the FDA green-lit PrEP in 2012, there has been a surge of information circulating about this crucial HIV prevention method. But here are a few lesser-known facts about it that you should know. 

  1. While PrEP is 99% effective in preventing HIV transmission, it is much less effective when it isn't taken as prescribed.

Make sure you take your PrEP every day to maximize its effectiveness. Some ways to help you remember include setting an alarm and utilizing a pillbox that has each day labeled on it. 

  1. PrEP is not just for cis gay men.

There are no gender or sexuality requirements for you to meet to take PrEP. PrEP is for anyone who is at risk of contracting HIV. 

PrEP can protect you if you do not have HIV and any of the following scenarios apply to you within the last 6 months:

  • You have engaged in anal or vaginal sex and:
    • Have a sexual partner who is HIV positive, particularly if their viral load status is unknown or detectable,
    • Have inconsistently used condoms, or
    • Have received a diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection.

You engage in injection drug use and:

  • Share injection equipment with an HIV-positive partner, or
  • Share needles, syringes, or other drug injection paraphernalia.

  1. PrEP does not protect you from other STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea.

While PrEP is a valuable tool in your kit for having safe sex, being on PrEP and using other preventative methods like condoms is the most effective way to stay safe while getting spicy.

  1. You may experience some side effects, but they should go away

Some may experience side effects from PrEP, including nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, depression, insomnia, and others. These side effects are typically mild and tend to go away in time. If you are taking PrEP, tell your clinician if you have any side effects that do not go away after regularly taking it. 

  1. PrEP can take up to 21 days to be effective.

This 21-day rule applies for receptive anal sex (bottoming), but PrEP pills offer optimal protection against HIV after approximately 7 days of daily use. However, for receptive vaginal sex and injection drug use, PrEP pills achieve maximum protection after about 21 days of daily use.

PrEP2Me provides an online platform where you can get the medication you need shipped directly to your door. Here's how our process works:

  1. Start with a Simple Form: You’ll share some basic info about yourself in our simple, straightforward online form (have your driver’s license ready!)
  2. At-Home Lab Kit: We'll send a lab kit to any address of your choice for you to complete the at-home STI screening. It's easy, and painless, and you'll be done in less than 5 minutes!
  3. Set Up Your TelePrEP Appointment: Next, we’ll contact you to book your first telehealth appointment. If you prefer face-to-face interactions, you're welcome to walk into any Central Outreach location.
  4. Medication, Direct to You: Once we have everything ready, your PrEP meds will be sent straight through to your doorstep in discreet packaging.

Making HIV prevention simple and stress-free is what PrEP2Me is all about. We're here to provide that personal touch, even online, to guide you through your prescription journey. You've got enough on your plate – HIV prevention shouldn’t add to it.

At PrEP2Me, we make it easy to get started with your PrEP prescription. Don't wait any longer to take control of your sexual health and reduce your risk of HIV. Get started with PrEP2Me today!