The PrEP Process: What to Expect
PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a therapy that can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV.
PrEP medicines, when taken as prescribed, are over 99% effective at stopping the HIV Virus from establishing itself and reproducing inside your body.
Initial Evaluation & Interview
You should come to your visit prepared to discuss your last HIV test as well as any risk factors you may have. You will also have a blood draw to assess your kidney function and liver for Hepatitis B, HIV status, and screen for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We will also collect a urine pregnancy test, if applicable.
All testing is done in our office, and results are available in 2-3 business days. Learn more about Cempa’s HIV, HEP C & STI Testing Services.
Medication Initiation
If your test results show that you are a good candidate for PrEP, your provider will write you a prescription for PrEP. It is essential that you take your medication as prescribed – Oral PrEP medication is taken daily, while Injectable PrEP is administered every 2 months. Your provider will help guide you through which PrEP option is best for you.
Follow-Up
If you are prescribed oral PrEP medication, you will need to schedule an in-person or Telehealth visit every 3 months with your provider for follow-up testing and prescription renewal. Patients prescribed injectable PrEP will schedule an in-person visit with a provider every 2 months for follow-up testing and for the PrEP to be administered.
PrEP FAQ's Answered
For more information about PrEP Services, contact a PrEP / PEP Navigator at 423.226.1115 or mforte@cempa.org.
Am I a good candidate for PrEP?
Ask about PrEP for HIV prevention if:
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You are sexually active and your partner is living with HIV
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You and your partner who is living with HIV wish to conceive
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You have multiple sex partners
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You do not know the HIV status of your sex partner(s)
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You use intravenous (IV) drugs
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You engage in sex that involves exchange of commodities (housing, drugs, money, etc.)
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You infrequently use condoms
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If you have anxiety about contracting HIV
What are the side effects?
PrEP is safe and the medication used for PrEP has been used to treat people with HIV since 2002.
PrEP may cause mild side effects, including an upset stomach or headache, especially at the beginning of treatment. Kidney function is checked twice a year. Your provider can help if side effects bother you.
What does PrEP Cost?
Most insurance programs, including Medicaid, cover PrEP. There is assistance available to help you pay co-pays and deductibles at the pharmacy. If you do not have health insurance, let us help you explore your options.
