There is a pill that can reduce the risk of contracting HIV to virtually zero. It has been available for years, is thoroughly well-tested, and boasts a protection rate close to 100 percent when taken correctly. Yet, many who could benefit from it are still completely unaware of its existence. We want to change that.
What Exactly Is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. Put simply: HIV-negative individuals take an antiretroviral medication before potential contact with the virus occurs. The active ingredients prevent HIV from establishing itself and multiplying inside the body. No infection, no virus, no transmission.
PrEP is not an emergency medication, nor is it a treatment for people living with HIV. It is a proactive, preventative measure that you use ahead of time—similar to condoms, but operating through a completely different mechanism.
Daily or Just When Needed?
There are two ways to take it. With daily PrEP, you take one pill every single day, regardless of whether sex is planned or not. This ensures continuous, round-the-clock protection.
Event-driven PrEP (also known as on-demand or episodic PrEP) works differently: it is taken specifically before and after a potential high-risk exposure, following a very strict and precise dosing schedule. Which option suits you best depends entirely on your personal lifestyle and can be determined during a medical consultation.
Who is PrEP For?
PrEP isn’t meant for everyone, but it can be life-changing for many. It is primarily recommended for individuals who face an increased risk of HIV exposure. This includes men who have sex with men and practice condomless anal sex. It also includes people in open relationships where one partner is HIV-positive and not yet on effective treatment, as well as people who use intravenous drugs and share needles.
Whether PrEP makes sense for you depends on your individual circumstances. A healthcare professional can help you evaluate your situation.
Costs and Access in Germany
In Germany, individuals with an elevated risk of HIV infection have a statutory right to counseling, regular testing, and the medication itself. This means that, in most cases, statutory health insurance covers the costs completely.
This coverage also includes regular laboratory check-ups, which are an integral part of the PrEP program: HIV tests, screenings for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and monitoring of kidney function. This isn't just bureaucracy—it actively safeguards your health.
PrEP requires a prescription and is available through pharmacies. We are currently working hard to make it available to you via Every Health very soon.
What You Should Know About Side Effects
Most people tolerate PrEP incredibly well. Especially during the first few weeks, some may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea, which usually resolve quickly. Headaches or fatigue are also possible. In rare cases, PrEP can affect kidney function or bone density, which is exactly why those regular check-ups are so crucial. They catch any potential side effects early, long before they become a problem.
PrEP is an Addition, Not a Replacement
PrEP protects reliably against HIV. However, it does not offer any protection against other sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis. Therefore, anyone taking PrEP should still get tested regularly for STIs and continue to use condoms depending on the situation.
In short: PrEP is one of the most effective tools we have against HIV. Those who need it should know about it, and those who know about it should have the power to use it.
