Frequently asked questions

Who is PrEP suitable for?

If you are HIV-negative but feel you are at higher risk of contracting HIV, taking PrEP can give you peace of mind and allow you to have a healthier sex life.

The following situations may increase your risk of contracting HIV:

• Having multiple sexual partners

• Not using condoms consistently

• Having a regular sexual relationship with an HIV-positive person

• Being unsure of the HIV status of your sexual partners or needle-sharing partners

• You or your sexual partner have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the past six months

• You or your sexual partner have injected drugs and shared needles in the past six months

My partner is HIV positive, but I'm HIV negative. Should I consider PrEP?

Yes, PrEP is a great option for you in this situation. It can provide valuable additional protection against HIV infection, especially if your partner’s viral load is not yet undetectable.

Since PrEP protects against HIV, do I still need condoms?

Think of PrEP as a targeted defense against HIV. It’s incredibly effective, but it doesn’t keep out everything. Condoms act as a broader security measure, protecting you from other sexually transmitted infections (STDs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Using both PrEP and condoms together creates a multi-layered shield, giving you the most comprehensive protection for a healthy sex life.

How often do I need to take PrEP?

There are two main ways to take PrEP:

• Daily PrEP: This is the most common method. You’ll take one pill every day, at around the same time, for the entire duration you want protection.

• On-Demand PrEP: This option is for people who don’t have sex very often but want protection during specific periods. You’ll follow the “2-1-1” schedule: take two pills 2-24 hours before sex, one pill 24 hours later, and another pill 24 hours after that.

No matter which method you choose, it’s important to talk to your doctor to determine the best option for you.

Can PrEP truly stop me from getting HIV?

Studies have shown PrEP is highly effective, reducing the risk of getting HIV through sex by up to 99%. It also offers significant protection, up to 70%, for people who inject drugs.

How long does it take for PrEP to start working?

• Daily PrEP: It takes about a week for PrEP to reach protective levels in your body to prevent HIV from sex. This means consistent daily use for 7 days is crucial before relying on PrEP for protection. After that, you need to continue taking one pill daily to maintain its effectiveness.

• On-Demand PrEP: This method requires strict adherence to the “2-1-1” dosing schedule for it to work. It’s important to note that On-Demand PrEP is only effective for anal sex. If you’re concerned about protection for other sexual activities, daily PrEP is the recommended option.

I started PrEP and have side effects. Should I worry?

While PrEP is generally well-tolerated, some people experience temporary side effects like nausea, headache, or fatigue when they first start. These usually go away within a month or so.

Remember, most side effects are mild and temporary. However, if your side effects are severe or don’t improve after a month, be sure to talk to your doctor.

I take medication for other conditions. Can I still use PrEP?

PrEP has been shown not to interact with most medications. However, it’s best to tell your doctor or pharmacist that you’re taking it before you are prescribed other medications.

I drink alcohol or use recreational drugs sometimes. Is PrEP right for me?

Studies haven’t shown any direct interactions between PrEP and alcohol or recreational drugs. However, here’s the thing: PrEP works best when you take it consistently as prescribed. If you’re partying or using drugs, it might be harder to stick to your dosing schedule. Missed doses can make PrEP less effective.

PrEP is a great option for many people, but consistent use is key.

How much does PrEP cost?

The cost of PrEP can vary depending on where you get it in Malaysia. It can range from RM250 to RM800 for a month’s supply. This price typically doesn’t include fees for consultations with a doctor or any required tests before starting PrEP.

Does my private health insurance cover PrEP?

Unfortunately, PrEP is currently not covered under private health insurance plans in Malaysia.

How can I stay on track with taking PrEP every day?

PrEP ideally should be taken at the same time every day to maintain a steady level of the medication in the body.

In order to do this, it is necessary to make taking your pills into a habitual action. Use alarms or reminders, and bring a spare dose with you for when you’re not at home.

I missed a dose of PrEP. What should I do?

It happens to everyone. If you miss a daily dose of PrEP, just pick up where you left off and take your next dose at your usual time. An occasional missed dose here and there won’t significantly impact PrEP’s effectiveness. There’s no need to double up to make up for the missed one.

Taking PrEP On Demand? This is different! Missing doses with On-Demand PrEP can affect its effectiveness. Be sure to strictly follow the “2-1-1” dosing schedule for maximum protection.

Can I take my PrEP on vacation?

Like any prescription medication for personal use, PrEP can be brought along with you when you travel. Keep the pills stored in their original, labelled container, and carry a prescription or doctor’s letter with you in case of inspection by customs. Make sure you bring enough with you for the entire trip, plus some extras in case of delays.

How can I get PrEP?

Before you can obtain PrEP, you will have to be assessed if you are suitable for it. This is done in a few simple steps at the clinic.

Step 1: Get a blood test done at health clinic that prescribes PrEP. They’ll test you for HIV, liver and kidney function. The results will be returned to you in about 2 – 3 days.

Step 2: Doctor will discuss your test results with you to see if you can go on PrEP.

Step 3: If you’re eligible for PrEP, you will be given a prescription.

Can I find PrEP at government healthcare facilities?

Some government clinics may prescribe PrEP based on a risk assessment. This is done under the doctor’s discretion, and there is no guarantee that you will be able to get a prescription.

Can I share PrEP with other people?

As with any other medication, sharing your prescription with other people is not advisable. A medicine that works for you may not work for someone else.