PrEP for HIV
PrEP is a method of preventing HIV infection in individuals at high risk. Read below for all the things you should know about PrEP.
What is PrEP?
How does PrEP work?
Is PrEp safe?
Is PrEp effective?
Important to Note
Is PrEP right for me?
PrEp is recommended for people who are at high risk of getting HIV. You must be HIV negative to use PrEP.
The people eligible for PrEP are:
- Anyone with a partner who is HIV positive and not on treatment or on treatment but not virally suppressed
- MSM (gay and bisexual) and transgender women who engage in condomless anal sex AND have used PEP more than once in the past year or had an STI in the past year or have a high score on a risk assessment tool
- anyone sharing injection drug use equipment
It is important to see a health care provider for a full assessment, if you think PrEP might be right for you.
*PrEP is not recommended in the context of a closed, stable relationship with a single partner if there is no risk of transmissible HIV.*
How do I start taking PrEP?
1. Talk to your healthcare provider about starting PrEP
2. You will need to have blood work done to verify you are HIV negative
3. If eligible, your healthcare provider will prescribe the medication to you
4. You can pick up PrEp from your local pharmacy
5. You will need to commit to HIV testing every 3 months while on PrEP
How much does PrEP cost?
- PrEp is available for free with a valid Saskatchewan health card, or if you are covered under non-insured health benefits.
- If you have an out-of-province health card and are considering PrEP, you can contact Student Wellness Centre to discuss your options.
Where can I access PrEP?
1. University of Saskatchewan Student Wellness Centre
2. Saskatoon Sexual Health Clinic
3. Your family physician/nurse practitioner (if they do not prescribe it, they can refer you to someone who does)