PrEP SERVICES

Don't Take the Risk. Get on PrEP.

We believe everyone deserves access to comprehensive sexual health care. That's why we offer PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) as part of our HIV prevention services.

What is PrEP?

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a daily medication that significantly reduces your risk of contracting HIV. It's a simple, effective tool for individuals at risk of HIV transmission.

How does PrEP work? By taking PrEP daily, you can:

  • Reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%

  • Reduce the risk of getting HIV from injection drug use by more than 70%

Who can benefit from PrEP? PrEP is safe and effective for adults and adolescents weighing over 77 pounds. If you're sexually active or engage in injection drug use and are concerned about your risk of HIV, PrEP may be a good option for you.

Why Is PrEP Effective?

PrEP involves taking the drugs Truvada or Descovy. When taken daily, the medication levels in your bloodstream are enough to prevent HIV cells from multiplying and spreading throughout the body. If, however, the daily dose is missed, the effectiveness of the drug is significantly reduced. Additionally, pre-exposure prophylaxis medication should be used in conjunction with condoms and HIV testing to further increase protection.

Who Should Consider Using PrEP?

PrEP is used to prevent the transmission of HIV. Therefore, anyone at risk of contracting the disease should consider the treatment. The following groups fall into the high-risk category.

  • An HIV-negative person in a sexual relationship with an HIV-positive person.

  • Someone who has sex without condoms with a person who injects drugs.

  • Individuals with multiple sexual partners.

  • Gay or bisexual men who have sex without using a condom.

  • Anyone having sex without condoms with a person at risk for HIV.

  • Intravenous drug users who share needles.

Common Questions About PrEP

Does PrEP cause any side effects?

While most people will experience no side effects from PrEP, some could suffer from nausea, headaches, weight loss, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, stomach cramps and gas or bloating. Any side effects are usually mild and last only a few days.

Do I need to use condoms if I take PrEP?

It is recommended that you continue using condoms along with your PrEP medication. While PrEP can provide 99% protection from HIV, condoms offer additional protection along with a reduced chance of contracting STIs.

Can I get help paying for PrEP?

AOC can help anyone looking to take PrEP. If you do not have insurance, we can assist you. If you have insurance, we will help you navigate your benefits for the best care.

Get Free PrEP Guidance From AOC

If you are considering using PrEP medication, AOC is here to offer guidance. We provide free and confidential consultations to individuals in Tarrant County.
Call the medical clinic at 817-916-5254 to get help today.