What does PrEP actually do?

What does PrEP actually do? PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is medication taken before a possible HIV exposure to prevent the virus from establishing infection. Oral PrEP contains two antiretroviral drugs that block HIV reverse transcriptase, an enzyme HIV needs to copy itself. If HIV enters the body, the drugs stop it from making copies of its genetic material inside immune cells, so the virus cannot spread and is cleared. Truvada uses tenofovir disoproxil fumarate plus emtricitabine, Descovy uses tenofovir alafenamide plus emtricitabine, and Apretude is injectable cabotegravir that blocks integrase, another enzyme HIV needs to insert its DNA into human cells. PrEP does not prevent other STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and it does not prevent pregnancy. It does not treat HIV if you already have it, and it requires HIV-negative testing before starting. PrEP works best when taken as prescribed and combined with regular HIV testing, STI screening, kidney function checks, and sexual health counseling. Talk to a clinician about which form fits your health and lifestyle.