PrEP, PEP, & DoxyPEP
Prevention Services at OIC
By taking proactive steps to prevent illnesses and infections before they occur, you're not only safeguarding your physical health but also investing in your overall quality of life. At OIC, we believe that prevention is key to living your best life, allowing you to enjoy every moment to the fullest without the worry of health concerns holding you back.
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a preventive medication for individuals at risk of contracting HIV. It involves taking a daily pill or monthly injection. When taken consistently, PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
Who Should Consider PrEP?
PrEP is for anyone who wants to take charge of their HIV prevention. However, it is recommended for individuals who are at a higher risk of HIV infection, including:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Individuals with HIV-positive partners
- People who inject drugs
- Those with multiple sexual partner
Treatment Options
PrEP is available in several forms, including:
- Truvada: An oral pill containing tenofovir and emtricitabine, taken once daily. A generic version is available, which may be more accessible through some insurance plans.
- Descovy: An oral pill similar to Truvada but with a newer form of tenofovir, taken once daily.
- Apretude: Injection administered by a healthcare provider once every two months (8 weeks) at your doctor’s office.
What is PEP?
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a preventive treatment aimed at reducing the risk of acquiring HIV after potential exposure.
There are two main types of PEP:
- Sexual exposure PEP
- Occupational PEP
Sexual Exposure PEP
Sexual Exposure PEP is for individuals who may have been exposed to HIV through unprotected sexual contact or other sexual activities. It involves taking a combination of antiretroviral medications within a specific timeframe after exposure to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
Contact our office immediately if you believe you've been exposed. The sooner you start PEP, the better your chances of effectiveness in preventing HIV transmission.
Occupational PEP
Occupational PEP is for healthcare workers or others who may have been exposed to HIV through occupational accidents, such as needlestick injuries or exposure to bodily fluids. This type of PEP also involves a course of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
If you are an employer interested in providing Occupational PEP services for your staff, please contact our office. We are committed to partnering with you to create a safer and healthier work environment for your employees.
What is Doxy-PEP?
DoxyPEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a preventive approach using the antibiotic doxycycline to reduce the risk of contracting bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) after potential exposure. By taking doxycycline soon after exposure, individuals can significantly lower their chances of acquiring infections like chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea.
Who Should Take Doxy-PEP?
DoxyPEP is recommended for individuals who are at higher risk of contracting STIs, including:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Individuals with multiple sexual partners
- This in open or non-monogamous relationships
- Those who have had a recent STI
- Individuals who engage in unprotected sex