What is PrEP?
PrEP stands for ‘Pre-exposure prophylaxis’. It is used for HIV treatment that keeps HIV negative people from becoming infected even though they are exposed to HIV. In Thailand, it is also used in preventing HIV infection.
What are the differences between brand name PrEP and generic PrEP?
There are no difference between TRUVADA and TENO-EM in terms of medical composition, both are comprised of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) 300 mg and emtricitabine (FTC) 200 mg.
How effective is PrEP?
According to CDC, daily PrEP intake reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex by more than 90%. It is highly effective if used as prescribed, vice versa.
I am pregnant, can I continue PrEP?
According to the WHO, pregnant women can continue PrEP with regard to their needs instead of pregnancy status. Babies, who are given birth by PrEP taking mother, are no more likely to be underweight, to be born prematurely or to have birth defects.
Who is suitable for PrEP?
According to the FDA, an adult or adolescent with body weight higher than 35 kg and has potential risk to be infected by HIV is suggested to take PrEP. One must be HIV negative and in good health to initiate taking PrEP. Read more to see if PrEP suits you.
Can I stop using condom after taking PrEP?
You should not stop using condom after taking PrEP, as it is not 100% effective. Combining PrEP with safer sex practices can give you the best protection. Condoms also help you to prevent other STD, such as syphilis.
How long does it take before PrEP is effective?
PrEP reaches maximum level of protection against HIV from receptive anal sex at about 7 days of daily use. For receptive vaginal sex and injection drug use, PrEP reaches maximum protection on the 20 days of daily use.
What is the dosage?
One bottle of PrEP contains 30 tablets. It can be taken daily or event driven basis.
How much is PrEP?
Brand name PrEP is available in Hong Kong. The price is around HK$8,000 to HK$10,000. In general, generic PrEP is a lot more affordable. Generic PrEP (TENO-EM) is also available in Hong Kong in Neo-Health HK. If you want to get PrEP, please contact us.
Some people get PrEP online, is it okay?
You SHOULD NOT purchase PrEP online when you are not sure if the supplier is legitimate, as there is always a risk of committing crime that you might get spurious medication from the unknown supplier. If you want to get PrEP, please contact us.
Can I go to other country to get PrEP?
Some people may go overseas for PrEP. However, there is also a risk of getting spurious medication from an unknown clinic. Besides, according to the Customs and Excise Department, you CANNOT bring more than the amount back to Hong Kong which is not reasonable for personal use. Keep in mind that you must do pre-medication tests to ensure your negativity in HIV and wellness of health in order to start taking PrEP. Thus, the TENO-EM is legally imported from manufacturer in Thailand.
Can PrEP be taken with other drugs as well?
Other drugs should not have direct influence on PrEP, but still you are advised to consult a doctor as it may varies case by case.
If I take PrEP, do I need to take it for the rest of my life?
No, you can choose to take it when you are in the season of risk.
Any test should be carried out before taking PrEP?
You are advised to undergo HIV, Hepatitis B and C, liver and renal function and STD tests before starting PrEP.
PrEP vs PEP
PrEP should be used before potential exposure of HIV, instead, PEP should be used after the exposure.
Any side effects?
Yes. Nausea, vomiting, fatigue and dizziness may appear in the first few weeks when start taking PrEP, they will resolve themselves over time. Bones problem may also occur, but they will get back to normal when you stop taking PrEP.
Any long-term harmful health effects?
According to the CDC, for those who are HIV negative and have taken PrEP for at least 5 days, they have no significant health effects.
Will drug resistance being developed?
No, if you are HIV negative before start taking PrEP, otherwise you may have a small chance in developing drug resistance.
How often should I visit the doctor when taking PrEP?
Every 2-3 months.
Does PrEP help preventing STDs?
No, using a condom is suggested as a result.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
You should take the dose within that day once you remember it but don’t take double dose on the next day if you miss today’s dose.
Do I need to take the dose every day the same time?
No, you can take it anytime you want, just one pill per day is fine.
Can I take PrEP after drinking?
Sure, alcohol does not interact with PrEP in any harmful ways.
Does period affect PrEP?
No, it does not.
Should I take PrEP together with food?
It is fine to take PrEP either with or without food.
Can a STD carrier take PrEP?
Yes, it does not affect PrEP’s effectiveness.
Does PrEP affect hormone therapy?
No, it does not.
Can PrEP be taken on an event driven basis?
Yes, 2 pills 2-24 hours before sex, 1 pill 24 hours after the first two pills and then one last pill 24 hours after the third pill.
What are the differences between TRUVADA, DESCOVY and TENO-EM?
TRUVADA: brand name drug
DESCOVY: brand name drug, different component from TRUVADA, less renal and bone problem
TENO-EM: generic drug, same component as TRUVADA
Can I travel with PrEP?
According to the Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60), a person is allowed to enter Hong Kong with reasonable quantity of pharmaceutical products for his/her personal use. Yet, it is important to pay heed to regulations of importation of pharmaceutical products in other countries or cities when travelling.
Can I get PrEP online?
An import license obtained from the Department of Health is a must before importing any pharmaceutical products from any place outside Hong Kong including offshore websites.
How should I store PrEP?
You are advised to put it somewhere out of children’s reach, at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture.
Where can I get PrEP?
Please contact us, we are offering both DESCOVY and TENO-EM!