2025 edition and access to PrEP in the UK

The online edition for 2025 is largely based on the 2024 update.

The main changes are that the new options for dosing were also included in the draft BASHH/BHIVA guidelines for PrEP that were published in October 2024.

  • Everyone who can benefit from PrEP should now be able to get it. You no longer have to be at high risk. 
  • Everyone now has the option to quick-start PrEP using a double first dose (two pills), working within two hours.
  • Adherence to daily dosing doesn’t have to be so strict. So long as someone takes four or more doses each week, protection will still be very high.
  • Event-based dosing can also now be used by everyone. This uses either 2:1:1 or 2:7 dosing.
  • New info covers starting and stopping PrEP and new versions of PrEP (TAF/FTC and injectables).
  • Final guidelines in 2025 might include additional recommendations that could make PrEP even easier. This includes that people who currently need 6-7 daily doses a week might only need 4 or more.

Getting PrEP in the UK

PrEP is now available free from sexual health clinics across the UK. It can also still be bought online.

These sites have more information, including on how to find a sexual health clinic by postcode.

See also: information about buying PrEP online from the UK.

PrEP and COVID-19 (coronavirus)

Many PrEP clinics rearranged services because of COVID-19.

This might involve testing less frequently for HIV and STIs, and maybe longer prescriptions. PrEP is still just as safe and effective.

For more information on PrEP and coronavirus, please see this information from New York City (PDF): Sex and COVID-19

PrEP and mpox (monkeypox)

From May to December 2022, the UK had an mpox epidemic that included more than 3500 cases, mostly in gay men.

Luckily, cases then dramatically dropped to less than 10 a week in England during 2023, often less. Many people were able to have vaccinations. These will not always prevent infection, but will reduce the risk of serious symptoms.

PrEP will not protect against mpox. Vaccination is still available and is recommended.

Last updated: 1 February 2025.