Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is an HIV prevention option for people who do not have HIV, which is why a negative HIV testing comes before PrEP. The medication can be administered orally (as a once-daily pill) or as part of a long-acting injectable medication (one injection every few months, depending on the brand). Even if a patient does not believe they have been exposed to HIV, or have no symptoms, highlights the importance of knowingyour HIV status.
CDC’s PrEP information describes PrEP as a medicine that reduces the chance of getting HIV through sex or injection drug use when taken as prescribed. Before starting PrEP, the CDC says a person must take an HIV test to confirm they do not have HIV.
Ultimately, this testing step protects the patient and ensures that they receive the appropriate treatment given their HIV status. If someone already has HIV, they need HIV treatment, not PrEP by itself; HIV treatment uses a comprehensive medical plan to control the virus and protect long-term health. CDC’s clinical guidance for PrEP states that HIV testing is required before starting PrEP.
The testing approach may change based on a person’s recent health history. CDC’s PrEP clinical guidance notes that required testing differs for people with recent PrEP or PEP use. Someone who recently took PrEP or PEP may need a different testing plan than someone who has never used HIV prevention medication.
A PrEP visit may also include baseline health checks. CDC’s clinical guidance states that providers need to conduct baseline assessments before prescribing PrEP. The same guidance recommends screening sexually active adults for bacterial STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, before starting PrEP.
PrEP and PEP serve different moments. PrEP is an ongoing prevention before possible exposure. PEP is emergency medication after a possible exposure. CDC’s PEP guidance says PEP must start within 72 hours (3 days) after a possible exposure.
HIV testing helps determine the right path. If someone tests negative and has an ongoing risk, PrEP may fit. If someone had a possible exposure in the last 72 hours, PEP needs a fast conversation. If someone tests positive, the priority shifts to HIV care.
Orenda Health & Wellness offers HIV testing, HIV risk assessment, PrEP initiation and monitoring, PEP evaluation and prescribing, HIV counseling, STD testing support, and linkage to care for new diagnoses through its HIV Testing and STI Services.
If you are thinking about PrEP, HIV testing is the first step. After that, a provider can review if PrEP fits your situation, what labs you need, and how follow-up care works.
Quick questions about PrEP
Can I start PrEP without an HIV test?
No, CDC’s PrEP clinical guidance says HIV testing is required before starting PrEP.
Is PrEP the same as PEP?
No, PrEP is an ongoing prevention before possible exposure. PEP is emergency medication after possible exposure and must start quickly, according to the CDC’s PEP guidance.
Can Orenda help with PrEP?
Yes! Orenda lists PrEP initiation and monitoring as part of its HIV testing and prevention services.