PrEP, PEP & DoxyPEP
By taking proactive steps to prevent illnesses and infections before they occur, you're not only safeguarding your physical health but also investing in your overall quality of life. At OIC Inspired, we believe that prevention is key to living your best life without the worry of health concerns holding you back.
What is PrEP?
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive medication for individuals at risk of contracting HIV. When taken consistently, PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
Who should consider PrEP?
PrEP is for any sexually active person that wants to take charge of their HIV prevention. However, it is especially recommended for individuals who are at a higher risk of HIV infection, including:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Any individuals with HIV-positive partners
- People who inject drugs
- Those with multiple sexual partners
PrEP Treatment Options
- Truvada: An oral pill containing tenofovir and emtricitabine, taken once daily. A generic version is available, which may be more accessible through some insurance plans.
- Descovy: An oral pill similar to Truvada but with a newer form of tenofovir, taken once daily.
- Apretude: An injection administered by a healthcare provider once every two months (8 weeks) at your doctor's office.
- Yeztugo: An injection administered by a healthcare provider once every 6 months at your doctor's office.
What is PEP?
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a preventive treatment aimed at reducing the risk of acquiring HIV after potential exposure. There are two main types of PEP:
Sexual Exposure PEP
Sexual Exposure PEP is for individuals who may have been exposed to HIV through unprotected sexual contact or other sexual activities. It involves starting a course of antiretroviral medications within 72 hours after exposure to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, and lasts about 28 days.
Contact our office immediately if you believe you've been exposed. The sooner you start PEP, the better your chances of effectiveness in preventing HIV transmission.
Occupational PEP (oPEP)
Occupational PEP is for healthcare workers or others who may have been exposed to HIV through occupational accidents, such as needlestick injuries or exposure to bodily fluids. This type of PEP is also started within 72 hours of exposure and involves a 28 day course of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
If you are an employer interested in providing Occupational PEP services for your staff, please contact our office.
What is Doxy-PEP?
DoxyPEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an off-label preventive approach using the antibiotic Doxycycline to reduce the risk of contracting bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) after potential exposure.
How does it work?
DoxyPEP is taken as a one time dose of (2) 100mg pills by mouth, within 72 hours of unprotected sexual activity. The sooner the better!
By taking doxycycline soon after exposure, individuals can significantly lower their chances of acquiring infections like chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea.
Reach out to our clinic to schedule a consultation visit with one of our providers to discuss DoxyPEP.
Who should take DoxyPEP?
DoxyPEP is recommended for individuals who are at higher risk of contracting STIs, including:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Any individuals who engage in unprotected sex
- Any individuals with multiple sexual partners
- Persons in open or non-monogamous relationships
- Those who have had a recent STI