Is PrEP the safest option for a person at high risk of HIV?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 27 years old and at a higher risk of HIV due to partner exposure and my lifestyle. I am considering starting PrEP.

Is PrEP the safest option for someone at high risk of HIV at my age?
My baseline HIV test was negative, and my kidney function is normal. I have read about possible bone and kidney side effects, which concern me. How effective is PrEP in real-world use if I occasionally miss a dose?
Does it provide protection against all HIV strains?
Also, how often do I need laboratory tests for monitoring?

I want strong protection without harming my long-term health. I am trying to make a responsible decision based on accurate information rather than fear or misinformation.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is very effective. If taken regularly, PrEP reduces the risk of HIV from sex by about 99 percent.

If someone forgets an occasional pill, it is usually okay, but frequently missed doses reduce protection. Try to take it daily.

But there are several side effects. The side effects are as follows:

In the kidneys, PrEP may cause a small, usually reversible change in kidney function. Serious problems are rare in young, healthy people.
In bones, it can cause a slight decrease in bone strength, but this is usually mild and improves if you stop the medicine.

Overall, PrEP is considered safe for long-term use with proper monitoring.

PrEP works against almost all common types of HIV worldwide. It must be started only after confirming that you are HIV negative.

I would advise some tests before starting PrEP. The tests are:

HIV test.
Kidney function test.
Hepatitis B test.

Do a follow-up monitoring every three months for an HIV test (very important) and every six months for a kidney function check.

So, if you have a higher risk of HIV, PrEP is one of the safest and most effective ways to protect yourself. The small risks to the kidneys or bones are usually mild and can be monitored, while the protection it offers is very strong.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.