PrEP: Protection against HIV in a pill?

HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus) weakens the human immune system and destroys the important cells that fight disease and infection. A person can get HIV when bodily fluids — including blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, or vaginal fluids of a person with the virus — come in contact with a mucous membrane or damaged tissue. HIV can be transmitted through breast milk, or when a contaminated needle or syringe comes into direct contact with the bloodstream. There is no cure for HIV, but with proper medical care the virus and its effects can be controlled. HIV transmission can be reduced by consistent use of condoms and clean needles. However, another way to protect against getting HIV is pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP. PrEP is a pill that can help prevent HIV PrEP is a combination of two antiretroviral medications, tenofovir and emtricitabine, that, if taken every day, can now prevent HIV. The pill (Truvada) is FDA approved. Truvada works by blocking an enzyme so that HIV cannot reproduce and establish infection in the body. The pill is taken by mouth with or without food. It is best if taken at the same time every day, as this helps establish a routine. Skipping days isn’t recommended. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time to take the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Truvada takes full effect seven to 20 days after starting the medication. It can be discontinued whenever the...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Health HIV Infectious diseases Source Type: blogs