Quick Info on The Mechanism of PrEP Therapy

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is a form of HIV prevention that involves taking antiretroviral medications before being exposed to HIV. PrEP works by preventing the virus from replicating in the body, thereby reducing the risk of HIV infection.

The medications used for PrEP are typically a combination of two antiretroviral drugs: tenofovir and emtricitabine. These drugs work by blocking an enzyme that the virus needs to replicate itself, thus preventing HIV from taking hold and spreading in the body.

When taken consistently, PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sexual activity or sharing needles. However, it's important to note that PrEP only protects against HIV and does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy.

It's also important to remember that PrEP is not a one-time event, but rather a daily commitment to taking medication as prescribed. People taking PrEP need to be regularly monitored by a healthcare provider to ensure that they remain HIV-negative and to check for any potential side effects of the medication.