PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. PrEP is a pill you take every day to lower your risk for getting HIV. The name of the pill is Truvada.
You can think of Truvada as the birth control for HIV. You take a pill once a day, and you’re less likely to get HIV.
It’s most prescribed for people who have a higher risk – like gay, bi, and queer men who have multiple partners, people who inject drugs, sex workers, and people who are in a relationship with someone who has HIV.
How do I get PrEP?
PrEP is prescribed at a most clinics in Montreal, but might be easier to get at l’Actuel and Quartier Latin (see below for more about them).
If you go to get Truvada. they will talk to you about your situation and how to take it. If you’re at risk for HIV, you’ll probably get a prescription.
How much does Truvada cost?
If you have RAMQ, it will cost you the monthly maximum of about $93. Other insurance tends to cover less, so without RAMQ, you’ll probably pay more, depending on your coverage.
How do I take PrEP?
You just need to take one pill a day, around the same time. It’s important to take the pill every day, though, or it will be less effective.
Can I take Truvada with other drugs?
There are a few prescription medications that can’t be taken with Truvada. So, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before taking new meds or changing the dosage of other ones.
Truvada can also be hard on the liver, so there are a few over-the-counter meds to look out for. Specifically, most painkillers, including Tylenol (acetaminophen), Advil (ibuprofen), and aspirin. If you take these regularly, it may degrade your liver.
If you’re taking anything else over the counter, it’s a good idea to talk to the doctor about them before you go on PrEP.
