What is PrEP?

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis is a daily medication taken by HIV-negative individuals to prevent HIV infection. It’s a powerful tool in HIV prevention that reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken consistently. For people who inject drugs, it reduces the risk by at least 74%.

 

PrEP is safe, effective, and recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Department of Health (DOH) as part of a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy.

Who Should Take PrEP?

PrEP is ideal for individuals who are at ongoing risk of HIV infection, such as:

  • Those with an HIV-positive partner who is not virally suppressed
  • People who have multiple sexual partners
  • Individuals who do not consistently use condoms
  • Men who have sex with men (MSM)
  • Transgender women
  • People who inject drugs
  • Sex workers
  • Anyone who feels they may be at risk and wants protection

 

*If you're unsure, a healthcare provider can help assess your risk and guide your decision.

How to Take PrEP

PrEP can be taken in two ways: Daily PrEP or Event-Driven PrEP (2+1+1 method) — depending on your needs, lifestyle, and sexual activity. A healthcare provider can help you choose the best option.

 

Daily PrEP

  • Take one pill every day, ideally at the same time each day.
  • Most effective for people with frequent sexual activity or who cannot predict when sex will happen.
  • Maximum protection:
    • 7 days for receptive anal sex
    • 21 days for vaginal sex or injection drug use
  • Continue taking it daily to stay protected.
  • Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one—never double dose.

 

Event-Driven PrEP (2+1+1+1+1+1 method)

Only for cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM) who do not have chronic hepatitis B and can plan sex at least 2 hours in advance.

Dosage guide:

  • 2 pills: Take 2 tablets 2–24 hours before sex
  • 1 pill: Take 24 hours after the first dose
  • 1 pill: Take 48 hours after the first dose

  • 1 pill: Take 3 days after the first dose

  • 1 pill: Take 4 days after the first dose
  • 1 pill: Take 5 days after the first dose
  •  

If sex continues over multiple days, take one pill every 24 hours until 48 hours after the last sexual activity.

 

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting event-driven PrEP.

Where to Get PrEP in Balanga, Bataan?

If your HIV screening result is nonreactive, we can refer you to Bataan HAVEN in Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center for PrEP enrolment. There, you’ll receive the support, counseling, and follow-up care you need to start and maintain your protection.

Be PrEPared!

PrEP is a medicine that provides up to 99% protection against HIV when taken as prescribed.

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