PrEP is a medication prescribed to individuals at risk of becoming HIV-positive. It’s short for pre-exposure prophylaxis and functions as a once-per-day pill. Patients taking this medication as prescribed are less likely to contract HIV from positive partners or those of unknown status. In fact, when taken properly, PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99%. Side effects of PrEP are minimal and usually stop within weeks of starting the drug.
Taking PrEP daily builds a presence of medication within the bloodstream that helps stop HIV from taking hold and replicating within your body. Although taking this medication daily optimizes effectiveness, patients may take these drugs as an on-demand option too.
How does PrEP work?
PrEP medications prevent HIV in the bloodstream from replicating, eliminating the virus from the body before it can take hold. After the original exposure, any virus within the body dies, preventing permanent infection. By barring replication, PrEP ensures the individual remains HIV-negative.
How Much Does PrEP Cost?
PrEP costs will vary, depending on the public health coverage and individual provinces. In Saskatchewan and Alberta, PrEP is fully covered for individuals deemed high HIV risk. In Quebec and Ontario, there is a blended system for coverage. PrEP is partially covered for some populations while remaining fully accessible to others. Normally, income, age, and access to private benefits will determine the copay on your PrEP medications.
Deciding to Start PrEP Medications
Making the decision to start PrEP is an individual choice between a patient and their medical provider. Always try to determine your risk of HIV transmission before starting this medication. The risk is determined by sexual or drug use behavior and current preventative barrier methods (like condoms). PrEP offers an additional layer of HIV prevention to keep you safe from potential exposure.
Speak with a medical professional about starting this medication. You’ll need to have lab tests and STD panels complete before receiving PrEP. Lab tests include blood and urine tests, along with an HIV test. These tests ensure your body will adequately handle the medication.
Where to Receive this Medication in Canada
There are currently several different options for receiving PrEP medications. Whether online, in person or through your doctor’s office, getting access to HIV preventatives should be effortless.
Online Access to PrEP
Individuals may contact an online service, like GoFreddie, to connect with health providers online. Interested candidates can speak with a provider, access lab information, and access medications directly from a safe and confidential portal.
These services are available from home, bringing a team of confidential and competent professionals into your living room. Online providers will have access to different PrEP medications, depending on which option is best for your lifestyle. All medications offer equal amounts of protection against HIV when taken as directed.
Sexual Health Clinic/ STI Clinic
Many patients receive PrEP medications through their local sexual health clinic, especially when facing potential exposures to HIV. Being on PrEP requires ongoing lab tests (both urine and blood) to ensure adequate protection and tolerance. Your initial testing will confirm eligibility for PrEP medicine, with follow-ups required after one month of use and every three months after that. Testing confirms your body is tolerating PrEP well, STIs are being detected and treated, and you’re still eligible for PrEP.
As STI clinics are specialized in sexual health and wellness, testing and treatment is common for HIV and STIs. Your initial appointment with the clinic will require a questionnaire for sexual health, drug use, and overall risk factors. It’s important to answer these questions honestly.
Family Doctor or Provider
Having an honest conversation with your family doctor is the first step in taking PrEP. Make sure you talk to your provider about any risks or issues you’re having, along with why you believe PrEP is the right option for your sexual health. Doctors’ offices will often give requisitions for STI and HIV testing, although some practices will have in-house testing available.
Unfortunately, many doctors are unaware of PrEP, making it difficult to hold candid conversations. Make sure you enter the conversation informed. Have any information about the drugs available for review, along with information about eligibility. Respond to your doctor’s questions honestly but remain firm in advocating for your health and wellbeing. Understand your rights as a patient. No one has the right to insult or belittle you for sexual health or drug use. This includes discrimination due to sexuality, ethnicity, income, gender, or ability.