Some facts, some Q&A

PrEP works if you take it, and is over 99% effective at preventing HIV infection.

Yes! There are programs available to get you PrEP if you don’t have insurance. PREVENTION 305 will take care of that. 

Most insurances cover PrEP, and there are copay assistance programs available to cover the cost of your deductible. We’ll help you with your copay!

Most people don’t experience any side effects from PrEP. For some, the most common side effects are headache, nausea, or upset stomach, which usually go away quickly. Some people have asked about liver problems and changes in body fat. Liver problems and changes in body fat haven’t been seen in people taking PrEP. If you have more questions about this, please remember to talk to your doctor about it during your consultation.

Yes. Both the medications that can be used for PrEP have been used for several years. The most serious side effects that have been reported are a slight reduction in bone density (less than 1%) and a slight decrease In kidney function. For PrEP, you will get blood tests for kidney function. Those who have had kidney function issues generally can still take PrEP, thanks to new options in PrEP.

PrEP only protects against HIV and condoms are still useful to protect against other STI’s like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis. But if you don’t use condoms consistently now, PrEP is definitely something worth considering.

Miami has the highest HIV rate of any city in North America. 1 in 56 men and 1 in 160 women in Miami-Dade County have HIV. The CDC has estimated that as many as a quarter of gay men in Miami are living with HIV, and many don’t even know it.

No…you don’t need to take PrEP forever. If you think your risk of getting HIV has changed, talk to your doctor to determine what’s right for you. Remember, PrEP doesn’t have to be forever, but HIV is.

Ok, let’s talk more on the phone. Please call us at (786) 818-2074. We’re here to help.