PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP: A Daily Pill That Keeps HIV Away

Perhaps you’ve heard of PrEP by now. There’s a lot of talk about this HIV prevention tool, because it’s a way that gay guys and others are taking care of themselves and having great sex.

But what exactly is it? How do you get it? And is it right for you?

Let’s break it down in plain language, with out shame or scare tactics here! Just the facts and a few cheeky nudges to help you feel confident about your choices.

What Is PrEP?

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily pill that can stop HIV from taking hold in the body. It’s really exciting because it’s another way for HIV-negative guys to prevent HIV while having the sex they want.

When taken daily, PrEP is up to 99% effective at stopping HIV in its tracks! You can take it multiple ways:

1. A daily pill (most common)
2. A longer lasting injection every few months (available in some places — ask your doctor or clinic). 
3. “On demand”, following the 2-1-1 method (2 pills taken up to 24 hrs before sex, then 1 pill 24 hours later and another pill 24 hrs after that one)

PrEP is for HIV-negative people who want extra protection — especially if you:

• Don’t always use condoms
• Have more than one sexual partner
• Have a partner living with HIV
• Get STIs more than once a year
• Share needles or other drug gear

There’s no “right” reason to be on PrEP. You don’t have to justify it. If it makes you feel safer, that’s a good reason enough.

What Does PrEP Actually Do?

PrEP works by building up HIV-fighting medication in your bloodstream and tissues. If HIV tries to enter your body during sex or drug use, the medicine is already there to stop it from taking hold.

PrEP does not protect against other STIs like gonorrhea or syphilis, and it doesn’t prevent pregnancy. It’s just one part of your sexual health toolkit.

Should I Get on PrEP?

Ask yourself a few questions:

• Have I had sex without a condom in the past 6 months?
• Do I sometimes hook up and don’t always know my partner’s HIV status?
• Do I use drugs with shared gear?
• Am I in a relationship with someone living with HIV?

If you said yes to any of these — or even if you’re just feeling anxious about HIV — PrEP might be a great option.

Lots of guys, especially queer and trans guys, are choosing PrEP as their top HIV prevention tool because it gives them peace of mind, it helps with sexual confidence, or it’s part of taking charge of their health.

How to Get PrEP in Canada

Getting on PrEP is easier than you might think. Here’s how it usually works:

1. Book a visit. You’ll need to see a doctor, nurse practitioner, or sexual health clinic. Some places let you do this online.

2. Get tested. Before starting PrEP, you’ll be given an HIV test, a kidney function test (just a quick blood draw) a full STI screening (and sometimes a pregnancy test if applicable)

3. Pick it up. Once prescribed, you can fill your PrEP at most pharmacies.

4. Keep checking in. Every 3 months, you’ll come back for routine check-ins and tests to make sure everything’s working well. For a lot of guys, this is a convenient way to build testing into their routine!

What About Cost?

PrEP is free or low-cost in many parts of Canada.

• In Ontario, it’s free for people under 25 (OHIP+), people with Trillium coverage, or those on Ontario Works.
• In other provinces, PrEP may be covered under public or private insurance.
• If you don’t have coverage, talk to your doctor or clinic. Many places can help you apply for support programs.
• Your local sexual health organization will also be able to help you navigate your options!

Cost shouldn’t be a barrier. Ask around — help is available!

Where Can I Get PrEP?

You can get PrEP from: your family doctor (if they’re informed — not all are, but it’s getting better), sexual health clinics, HIV clinics, and some walk-in or virtual care clinics.

If you’re not sure where to start, check TheSexYouWant.ca for a list of PrEP-friendly clinics near you.

Real Talk: Common Questions About PrEP

Is PrEP safe?

• Yes! Most people don’t get any side effects, and if they do, they’re usually mild (like nausea or headaches) and go away in a few days.

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Missing one pill now and then is okay, but try to take it every day unless you’re taking it on demand. The more consistent you are, the better the protection.

Can I stop and start PrEP?

• Yes! But talk to your provider before stopping or restarting, especially if you’re switching partners or going through a dry spell.

Does PrEP make people stop using condoms?

• Some people still use condoms, others don’t. It’s your choice. PrEP protects against only HIV. Condoms add extra protection against other STIs.

What if I’m on hormones or other meds?

• No problem! PrEP is safe to take with gender-affirming hormones and most other medications. Just let your provider know what you’re taking.

PrEP is one of the most powerful tools we have to stop HIV, and it’s made for people like you. If you want to feel more in control of your sex life, reduce worry, or take a proactive step in your health, PrEP is worth considering.

There’s no shame in protecting yourself. Talk to a clinic, ask questions, and decide what works for you so you can have the sex you want.