What is PrEP?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis.

• PrEP is taken before sex, so it is pre-exposure. But it also needs to be taken afterwards too. Prophylaxis means to prevent infection.
• More than 86,000 people in the UK already use PrEP.

PrEP usually contains two HIV drugs in a single pill. This is usually TD (tenofovir disoproxil) plus FTC.

A version using TAF (tenofovir alafenamide) instead of TD is used by the NHS if you have kidney or bone issues. Generic TAF/FTC can also be bought cheaply online.

PrEP using a 2-monthly injection of cabotegravir is also being assessed for approval in the UK.

Studies are also ongoing using a 6-monthly injection of lenacapavir.

Last updated: 1 February 2025.