What is PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)?
Pre Exposure Prophylaxis is about protecting yourself before you are exposed to HIV. By taking Truvada daily, you are 99% protected from contracting the HIV should you be exposed to it via sex.
Who can take Truvada?
Truvada can be taken by HIV negative adults (male or female) and it was the first pill approved by the FDA for this purpose.
Are there alternatives to Truvada?
Descovy for PrEP is a once daily pill for adults and adolescents who are at risk for contracting HIV. It can not be taken by those who were assigned female at birth.
Are there any common side effects?
Common side effects for those taking Truvada for PrEP include nausea, stomach pain and mild weight loss. If these symptoms persist, please contact your healthcare provider.
Are there any more serious side effects?
Kidney complications. Your doctor should test your kidney function with blood and urine samples before starting Truvada. Your kidney function should remain tested regularly while you are on the medication.
Severe liver problems. In rare cases they can lead to death. Tell your doctor or healthcare provider right away if you experience long lasting nausea, very dark urine, light colored bowel movements, stomach pain, loss of appetite
Bone problems including pain, softening and fractures. Your healthcare provider may test for these while you are on the medication.
Does Truvada protect me from other STIs?
No, Truvada for PrEP is only effective at preventing HIV. Other STIs are not prevented by taking it and you should you be tested every three months to make sure that you are not only negative for HIV but other STIs as well.
How can I get on Truvada?
Truvada for PrEP is available for free in all 50 states including D.C and Puerto Rico through MISTR. MISTR provides free online PrEP and STI testing delivered straight to your door. You can use MISTR with or without insurance.
Can I miss doses of Truvada?
PrEP is most effective when taken every single day. If you take PrEP daily, the level of protection is about 99%. If you take PrEP four times per week, the level of protection is about 96%. When taken less than 4 days per week, the potency of the drug in the bloodstream is greatly reduced, and the drug’s effectiveness drops dramatically. If you miss a dose, make sure to take the next one, but there is no need to double up.
Does Medicaid cover Truvada? What about Medicare?
Yes. Both Medicaid, as well as Medicare, will cover PrEP
How much does Truvada cost?
PrEP is available for free through most insurance providers, including Medicaid and Medicare. If you are uninsured, there are patient assistance programs available to help cover all expenses related to PrEP.
Services like MISTR help get your completely free PrEP in all 50 states including DC and Puerto Rico.