PUBLISHED ON 04/18/24
ABOUT PrEP HIV Prevention for People Who Inject Drugs
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication that can reduce your chance of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV.
Forms of PrEP PrEP Medication
Approved for Injection Drug Use
Approved for Sex
Truvada Yes Yes Descovy No Yes PrEP Shot No (not FDA-approved) Yes Currently, PrEP shots are not FDA-approved for PWUD but it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Effectiveness of PrEP: •
PrEP reduces the chance of getting HIV through sex by 99%.
•
It reduces the risk of getting HIV through injection drug use by at least 74%.
•
It takes 21 days of daily medications to be maximally protected from HIV infection through receptive vaginal sex and injection drug use.
Considerations for PrEP Use: •
PrEP pills reach maximum protection at about 21 days of daily use.
•
Barrier methods, such as condoms, are recommended during the first 21 days of PrEP use for receptive vaginal sex.
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Taking PrEP only when “at-risk…” means taking the medication only before sex or injection drug use. However, this method’s effectiveness for preventing HIV transmission through injection drug use is uncertain.
Who Should Use PrEP: •
PWID who inject with a partner who has HIV or share injection equipment.
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Individuals considering pregnancy with a partner who has HIV.
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Adolescents at risk of HIV from sex or injection drug use (if they weigh at least 77 pounds).
Accessing PrEP: Most insurance plans and state Medicaid programs cover PrEP. There are also programs that provide PrEP for free or at a reduced cost for those without insurance.
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Ready Set PrEP: This program makes PrEP medication available at a low cost for those who qualify. Eligibility criteria apply.
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Copay Assistance Programs: These programs help lower the cost of PrEP medications. Income is not a factor in eligibility.
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