PrEP is an FDA-approved prescription medication that protects against getting HIV. Similar to birth control, but for HIV, PrEP is available as both a pill and long-acting injectable (or shot).

Both forms of PrEP are highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed. As a pill, PrEP is taken once a day. Another option is to get it as an injection every two months from a healthcare provider. A healthcare provider can discuss the benefits of both options.

You must continue using PrEP to maintain a high-level of protection.

As part of ongoing PrEP, you will need to see a healthcare provider every few months to be re-tested for HIV and other health checks.

Most people pay little or nothing for PrEP. Federal law requires that almost all health insurers cover daily oral PrEP. Insurers cannot charge people on daily PrEP any out-of-pocket fees such as copays for the medication or the required clinic visits. If you do not have health insurance, or need help paying for PrEP, financial assistance is often available.

• A PrEP navigator can help you with options.

There is currently no requirement for insurers to cover injectable PrEP, and unfortunately, many insurers do not cover it. There are financial assistance programs that may help to get injectable PrEP.

According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), taking PrEP daily reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 99 percent. For people who inject drugs, PrEP also reduces the risk of getting HIV by 74 percent when taken consistently.

Both forms of PrEP do not protect against other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Condoms reduce the risk of gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis and other common STDs, as well as pregnancy.

• Illinois Department of Public Health Resources
• Paying for PrEP