PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a once-daily medication for persons who are HIV-negative that can reduce the chance of contracting HIV. By taking one pill a day, PrEP can help prevent the transmission of HIV if exposed to the virus. Various studies have shown that taking medicine consistently significantly lowered the risk of being infected over those who did not take the pill.
PrEP takes up to 3 weeks to be effective.
Combining PrEP with condoms and other prevention methods further decreases the chances for getting HIV. Therefore, risk-reduction strategies outside of PrEP should still be used, as PrEP does not protect from other STI's (Sexually Transmitted Infections).
Visit your physician for more complete information and to find out if PrEP is right for you.
Private insurances usually cover PrEP, however, duductibles an co-pays for medication may require out -of-pocket cost.
Louisiana Medicaid covers office visits, lab tests, and prescription costs.
Medicare Part D also covers the medication, but you may still be responsible for co-pays.
• Prophylaxis: To prevent or control the the spread of an infection or disease.
For more information please visit: www.cdc.gov/hiv or https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/prep.html
