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HIV PrEP

What is PrEP?  

PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It's a medication taken by people who are HIV-negative to prevent HIV infection. When taken correctly, PrEP is highly effective and reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex by around 99%.  

How does PrEP work?

PrEP contains antiretroviral medicines (most commonly tenofovir and emtricitabine) that prevent HIV from taking hold and spreading in your body. It works by building up protection in your bloodstream and genital or rectal tissues, so if you're exposed to HIV, the virus cannot replicate and infect you.  

Does PrEP protect me from other STIs?

PrEP only protects against HIV. It does not offer any protection against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis, and hepatitis C. It also does not prevent pregnancy. For full protection, it's still important to consider consistent condom use, regular STI testing, and open communication with your sexual partner(s).  

How do you take PrEP?

PrEP can be taken either regularly (daily dosing) or 'on demand' (event-based dosing). How you take it depends on your circumstances, how often you have sex and what type of sex you have. Your clinician will discuss the various options with you and advise on the most appropriate dosing for you.  

Daily dosing:  

  • Taking PrEP daily provides protection for vaginal / frontal and anal sex.  
  • Daily dosing involves taking 1 PrEP pill every day, around the same time.  
  • It is recommended to take PrEP with food or after food.  
  • When daily dosing, wait 7 days after you start taking PrEP before you have sex to ensure you are fully protected.  

On demand or Event-based dosing:  

  • Taking PrEP on demand is recommended for protection against HIV during anal sex.  
  • PrEP on demand involves two dosing types - 2-1-1 and 2-7.
  • 2-1-1 Dosing can be used by anyone having anal sex (insertive/receptive) or insertive vaginal/frontal sex.  
  • 2-1-1 Dosing involves taking 2 PrEP tablets between 2 and 24 hours before sex, then taking 1 tablet 24 hours later, and taking 1 tablet 24 hours after that. Continue to take 1 pill every 24 hours until you have not had sex for 2 days.  
  • 2-7 Dosing can be used by anyone having receptive vaginal/frontal sex.  
  • 2-7 Dosing involves taking 2 PrEP tablets between 2 and 24 hours before sex, then taking 1 tablet every day for 7 days after having sex.

What PrEP means for you and your sexual partner(s)  

PrEP puts you in control of your HIV protection. It can reduce anxiety around sex and help you feel more confident in your relationships. It is a great option for people of all genders and sexualities, whether you are in a relationship, having casual sex, or just want peace of mind. Using PrEP can also be a way to care for your partner(s) and show that you're taking responsibility for your sexual health.  

Are there any side effects?

PrEP is safe and well-tolerated. Most people who take PrEP don't experience side effects. However, like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some people. Some experience minor side effects like nausea, headache, or upset stomach — usually within the first few weeks as their body is getting used to the pill, and then these symptoms will pass. Serious side effects are rare. Your kidney function will be monitored with regular check-ups while taking PrEP to make sure everything stays healthy and to detect any problems early.  

Where can you get PrEP?

You can get PrEP for free through the NHS. In Norfolk, PrEP is available for free through your local sexual health clinic.  

Want to get help in the community?

You are not alone. There are many community organisations in Norfolk that can help and support you with conversations about PrEP. These include:  

You can also find support and information online at:  

If you are a VCSE organisation in Norfolk and would like to build the capacity of your staff to talk about PrEP confidently with the people you support, please get in touch with [email protected]. Read our privacy notice to find out how we use your personal information.

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