HIV Prevention Medication (PrEP and PEP)
Medications to prevent HIV infection
Overview prior to exposure
What is PrEP?
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a prescription medication taken to reduce the risk of HIV infection. When used as prescribed, PrEP can lower the chance of HIV transmission through sexual activity by 99%.
Who should consider taking PrEP?
Who should consider taking PrEP?
PrEP is recommended for individuals who are HIV-negative and at higher risk of acquiring HIV. This includes people who:
- Have sexual partners with unknown or positive HIV status
- Share needles or syringes
- Have recently been diagnosed with an STD or engage in behaviors with higher HIV transmission risk
What types of PrEP are available?
What types of PrEP are available?
There are three FDA-approved PrEP options:
- Truvada (F/TDF): A daily oral medication
- Descovy (F/TAF): Another daily oral medication
- Apretude: A long-acting injectable given every 8 weeks
How do I decide which PrEP option is right for me?
How do I decide which PrEP option is right for me?
Work with your healthcare provider to choose the best option. Factors include:
- Your risk of HIV exposure
- Your ability to adhere to a daily medication routine
- Your preference for injections versus oral pills
What is required before starting PrEP?
What is required before starting PrEP?
You must confirm your HIV-negative status through testing before starting PrEP. Routine HIV testing is required every 3 months for oral PrEP or every 8 weeks for injectable PrEP.
Are there side effects?
Are there side effects?
PrEP medications are generally well-tolerated. Some users may experience mild side effects like nausea or headaches. Speak with your provider about any concerns.
How often do I need to take PrEP?
How often do I need to take PrEP?
There are three usage options:
- Daily PrEP: For consistent protection against unpredictable exposures
- On-Demand PrEP: For men who have sex with men, involving pills taken before and after specific exposures
- Long-Acting Injectable PrEP: Administered by a healthcare provider every 8 weeks
Where can I get PrEP in Alaska?
Where can I get PrEP in Alaska?
PrEP is prescribed by healthcare providers. HIV/STD Testing & Service Locations
Facilities offering PrEP in Alaska include:
- Planned Parenthood (Anchorage & Fairbanks)
- Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center
- Alaska Native Medical Center (statewide for tribal health beneficiaries)
- Infectious Disease Management Group (telehealth options available)
To find a PrEP provider near you, visit locator.hiv.gov.
How do I pay for PrEP?
How do I pay for PrEP?
Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover the cost of PrEP without co-pays. This includes medication, medical appointments, and lab tests associated with PrEP. Some health insurance plans may require prior approval. For people without access to health insurance with prescription drug coverage, financial assistance may be available.
Overview after exposure
What is PEP?
What is PEP?
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication taken to prevent HIV infection after a potential exposure. It must be started within 72 hours of exposure and taken daily for 28 days.
Who needs PEP?
Who needs PEP?
PEP is for emergency use only and is recommended if you think you may have been exposed to HIV through:
- Condom failure during sex
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Sexual assault or other high-risk situations
- sex without a condom, barrier, or PrEP
How effective is PEP?
How effective is PEP?
If taken correctly within 72 hours of exposure, PEP is highly effective in preventing HIV infection. Starting sooner increases its effectiveness.
What is the recommended PEP treatment?
What is the recommended PEP treatment?
The CDC recommends a 28-day regimen of three antiretroviral drugs, such as:
- Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) + emtricitabine (FTC) once daily, combined with raltegravir (RAL) or dolutegravir (DTG)
Are there side effects?
Are there side effects?
Most people experience mild side effects, such as fatigue or gastrointestinal discomfort. Discuss concerns with your provider.
Where can I access PEP in Alaska?
Where can I access PEP in Alaska?
Contact your healthcare provider, an urgent care facility, or an emergency room as soon as possible after exposure. If you're unable to afford PEP, assistance programs may provide medications at reduced or no cost.
How do I pay for PEP?
How do I pay for PEP?
Private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and worker's compensation usually cover PEP. If insurance doesn't cover it, you can apply for free medications through the manufacturer's assistance programs, with urgent requests often processed more quickly to avoid delays.
Applications can be completed online, by phone, or by fax using Gilead.