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How effective is PrEP for my HIV prevention?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 37-year-old male. I have a high risk of acquiring HIV infection. So, I want to know the preventive measures to follow to prevent acquiring HIV infection. Can you please tell me what PrEP is and how it works?

I want to know whether it is the right option to follow. What are the other preventive measures that I should consider? How effective are they, and do we face any side effects or risks? Please guide me in protecting myself safely from getting this HIV infection.

Please help.

Thank you.
Answered by Dr. Raveendran S R

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication that has to be taken daily to prevent HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It involves taking a combination of antiretroviral drugs to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV during high-risk activities like unprotected sex or needle sharing. It is highly effective when taken consistently, reducing the risk by more than 90%.

Other preventive measures include using condoms, limiting sexual partners, and getting regular HIV tests. PrEP is safe for most people but may cause side effects like nausea or kidney issues, so regular monitoring is needed.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At January 22, 2025
Reviewed At February 25, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Dr. Raveendran S R
Dr. Raveendran S R

Sexology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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