What is PrEP?
PrEP is a drug that can be taken by HIV negative people to prevent HIV. You can take PrEP if you are HIV negative, but are at high risk of catching HIV. PrEP is highly effective if taken correctly.
What does the name PrEP mean?
- ‘Pre’ is something you do before a risk of exposure (in this case to HIV)
- ‘Prophylaxis’ is a treatment or action you can take to help prevent disease
PrEP is different from PEP, for more information on PEP, please click here.
PrEP and STI's
PrEP will only protect you from HIV. Using condoms will reduce your risk of STI’s such as Syphilis, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea. We also advise that you seek regular testing. Your sexual health clinics can offer vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B and HPV.
The benefits of taking PrEP
PrEP is taken to protect you from HIV. If taken correctly, it means that you don’t need to worry about the HIV status of your partner.
Where to get PrEP?
PrEP is available free of charge on the NHS in England and is provided free of charge by sexual health clinics. Please contact your local clinic to arrange an appointment on 0300 330 1122 for Teesside and Northern Lincolnshire, 0300 303 8565 for Oldham, Bury and Rochdale, or 0300 247 0020 for Cheshire West and Chester.