Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV.
What is PrEP?
PrEP stands for “Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis”, meaning it is a tool to stop infection (“prophylaxis”) that is taken before you are exposed to HIV. Current clinical guidelines for PrEP recommend daily use of Truvada, Descovy or generic versions for maximum HIV prevention benefits.
PrEP is endorsed by the World Health Organization for people who are HIV negative and at risk for becoming positive. It has been shown to be as high as 99% effective at reducing risk for HIV when taken every day (without missing a dose).[i]
PrEP works by disrupting HIV and preventing it from establishing a foothold in the body and causing a systemic infection.
PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, and it is not a cure for HIV.
More on PrEP
PrEP is an acronym that describes the overall prevention method (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). It isn’t a new concept. Many other drugs are also taken prior to infection to prevent illness (e.g. Malaria medications before going travelling).
In Canada, the drug Truvada (and its generics) as well as the drug Descovy are approved for use as PrEP. All are considered safe and effective forms of PrEP. Speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine which may work best for you.
Research is currently ongoing, but in the future additional antiretroviral medications may be approved to be used as PrEP such as once monthly injectables.
Other Key Facts
PrEP should be seen not only as a daily pill that prevents HIV, but a comprehensive sexual health plan that links you to ongoing care. In addition to getting a prescription from your doctor, PrEP will require ongoing visits with your doctor every three months to screen for HIV, side effects from the medication, and sexually transmitted infections.
Frequently asked questions about PrEP can be found at the TheSexYouWant.ca. For a breakdown of current ways of accessing PrEP in Ontario, visit our campaign page HIVnow.
Heard of PrEP in the news? Here’s an explainer about what it means for PrEP access in Ontario.
PrEP is easy to get, but it’s especially easy if you know exactly where to look. We connected with several clinics in Toronto offering PrEP and have compiled their information below. Each clinic is happy to help new clients either through email or phone.
PrEP Clinic:
416-420-1250
Providing free PrEP access to all Ontarians through their online clinic and pharmacy. Also provides HIV treatment meds across Canada and on-site STI testing.
PrEP RX:
905-781-PREP (7737)
Offering comprehensive HIV prevention services and PrEP access to individuals living in Toronto.
Allan Clinic:
200 Gerrard St E Suite 311, Toronto, ON M5A 2E6
416-969-4000
Providing free, improved access to PrEP, on-site STI screening and substance-related therapy.
Maple Leaf Clinic:
14 College St, Toronto, ON M5G 1K2
416-920-1991
A multi-specialty clinic offering access to PrEP, help finding a doctor and HIV- and sexual health-related research.
Meds Expert:
461 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C5
416-922-MEDS (6337)
Make an online appointment for a free consultation with an expert and gain access to PrEP at the lowest available price.
Freddie:
825-719-00483
A fully online prep service offering at home testing and mailed prescriptions at either low or no cost.
Village Pharmacy:
473 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C5
(416) 967-9221
535 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 1Y5
416-960-2323
www.thevillagepharmacy.ca/prep-clinic
Helping patients through every step of the PrEP access process, from consultation to prescription.
JuliusMD
Julius is a leading LGBTQ+ virtual clinic for Canadians, specialized in PrEP care for HIV prevention. Get a FREE online doctor appointment to see if PrEP is right for you.
Website: https://juliusmd.ca/
Phone: 438-834-7737
Email: care@juliusmd.ca