What is Prep Pill?
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medicine that reduces your chances of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use.
When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV. Are there different types of PrEP? PrEP can be pills or shots.
Prep Pills In South Africa
Is the PrEP pill available in South Africa?
The original form of oral PrEP available is produced by Gilead and called Truvada®. Generic forms are available in South Africa.
Can I buy PrEP pills over the counter?
PrEP is only available by prescription. Any healthcare provider licensed to write prescriptions can prescribe PrEP; specialization in infectious diseases or HIV medicine is not required.
If you don’t have a doctor, you can use the HIV Services Locator to find a PrEP provider and other HIV services near you.
Is PrEP effective after 3 days?
For people taking Truvada as daily PrEP who engage in anal intercourse, the medication must be taken each day for 7 days to reach the level needed for full protection.
Cis-gender MSM who are taking on-demand PrEP must take two pills, 2-24 hours before having sex.
Is PrEP safer than condoms?
This is quite rare, but a doctor may monitor the patient’s health more closely if they have pre-existing conditions or a family history of these issues.
Overall, PrEP is far more effective at preventing HIV transmission than condoms during sexual intercourse.