What is PrEP? Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (also known as PrEP) is medicine people at risk for HIV take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. There are two medications approved for use as PrEP: Truvada and Descovy.

Is PrEP covered by my insurance? Yes, both medications used for PrEP (Truvada and Descovy), are covered by insurance. Co-pays may be charged for the medication but there are co-pay assistance programs that help cover this cost.

What if I don’t have insurance or can’t afford the medication? For those who do not have insurance, there is a national PrEP donation program that provides the medication free of charge.

Do I have to take PrEP every day? PrEP is most effective when taken every day, 7 days per week. However, there is scientific evidence to support taking PrEP on-demand (2 pills 2-24 hours before unprotected sex, one pill 24 hours after the first dose and one pill 24 hours after the second dose) provides effective protection when having anal sex without a condom.

Do I still need to use condoms? PrEP is highly effective if it is used correctly and consistently, every day. But, it is not 100% effective. So it is recommended that you use condoms or other methods of reducing HIV risk at the same time you use PrEP. Another reason to use condoms is that PrEP does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, syphilis or gonorrhea. So, you should still use condoms every time you have sex.

What should I do if I miss a dose? It is very important to take PrEP every day—it is most effective if the drug levels in your body are consistently high. If you do miss a dose, don’t panic. Take the pill as soon as you remember, unless it is already almost time to take the next dose (in that case, do not take a double dose). Contact your provider if you notice that you are missing doses on a regular basis (and especially if you miss more than 1 or 2 doses a week).

What might happen if I miss doses? If you miss doses of PrEP, your chances of becoming infected with HIV may rise significantly. In addition, if you become infected while you are on PrEP, your HIV virus may become resistant to the medications used to treat HIV.

What are the side effects of PrEP? Most people who take PrEP have no side effects. Some experience nausea, diarrhea, or headache when they first start it; these symptoms usually get better within a couple of weeks. PrEP can cause problems with kidney function— this is uncommon, and your provider will monitor your kidneys. It may slightly decrease the strength of your bones; the significance of this is not clear. Discuss all potential side effects with your provider.

Can I take PrEP with my other medicines? Truvada and Descovy do not affect most other medications. For example, they can be taken with blood pressure and diabetes medications, methadone, and hormones.

How can I get started on PrEP? Contact a study counselor at ProjectPEACH@emory.edu.

Will I have to take PrEP for the rest of my life? No, unlike HIV medications for people who are infected with HIV, PrEP is not lifelong therapy. It is intended to help during periods when you may be at risk of getting HIV infection. If your risk for HIV decreases, talk to your provider about stopping PrEP.

What if I want to stop PrEP? Discuss this with your provider. In general, we recommend continuing PrEP for 28 days after your last high-risk exposure.

What if I become infected with HIV? If you develop HIV, your provider will have you stop taking PrEP and will refer you for treatment for HIV. Truvada or Descovy alone is not strong enough to control HIV infection, and if you continue taking it, the HIV virus may become resistant to the medications.

How often will I get my medication? Your medication will be refilled every 3 months, after you complete your 3-month STI home testing or in-person study visit.

What is STI PEP? Taking medication after unprotected sex is called Post-Exposure Prophylaxis or PEP. Multiple studies have shown doxycycline to be effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections (also known as STIs) if taken immediately after unprotected sex.  

Is STI PEP covered by my insurance? Project PEACH will provide doxycycline free of charge through Emory Investigations Drug Service. You will not need insurance. There will be no cost to you.

What are the side effects of doxycycline? Doxycycline is a generally a safe and well tolerated antibiotic. In some people, it can cause side effects such as nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, or sun sensitivity. These side effects are generally not severe but you will be monitored by us in case you need extra treatment.

How often do I have to take STI PEP? You will take two doses, or two pills, within 24 hours of condomless anal sex and no later than 72 hours post-exposure. STI PEP is most effective when taken as directed.

How often will I get my medication? Your medication will be refilled every 3 months; after you complete your 3-month STI home testing or in-person study visit.