Understanding HIV and STI prevention starts with knowing the key differences between PrEP for HIV, PEP for HIV, and doxy-PEP for STIs (aka “The Morning After STI Pill” or STI-PEP). Even though these terms may sound similar, they serve distinct purposes in the fight against HIV and STI transmission. To make it easier for you, we’ve broken them down into a handy, downloadable resource guide!
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PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
PrEP is taken as a once-daily pill.* It reduces your chances of getting HIV through sex by 99% and stops HIV from entering and spreading in your body. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is one of our most powerful tools in the fight against HIV/AIDS. *PrEP is also available as a bi-monthly injection.
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)
PEP serves as an emergency medication taken to prevent HIV and must be taken within 72 hours after possible exposure. The sooner you start taking PEP the better! When taken as prescribed, PEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV by over 80%.
Doxy-PEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)
Doxy-PEP** is an antibiotic that helps prevent the STIs chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. This medication is taken as one 200mg dose immediately after sex but no later than 72 hours after potential exposure to these STIs. When taken as prescribed, doxy-PEP for STIs lowers the risk of chlamydia by 88% and gonorrhea and syphilis by over 50%. For people living with HIV, doxy-PEP lowers the risk of these STIs by 58%.
**Package your HIV and STI protection by using both PrEP and doxy-PEP responsibly. Q Care Plus will only prescribe and deliver doxy-PEP with an initial PrEP prescription or a PrEP refill.
Know Your HIV and STI Prevention Options
By understanding the differences between PrEP, PEP, and doxy-PEP, everyone can make informed decisions about which HIV or STI prevention method is best for them. Whether you want proactive protection with PrEP or have an immediate need for PEP or doxy-PEP, each approach plays a vital role in reducing the spread of HIV and STIs. By promoting overall sexual health, everyone can stay informed and empowered.
Q Care Plus expert providers are available to meet with you online and discuss if PrEP or PEP for HIV prevention, and doxy-PEP for STIs are right for you. Sign up for convenient online visits and fast PrEP and doxy-PEP medication delivery. Take control of your sexual health today!
