Question

Can I use ARVs instead of PrEP?

9 September 2019. Related: All topics, HIV transmission.

My girlfriend has tested positive and on arvs,and I have tested negative, can i drink arvs to prevent myself since i am in South Africa and can’t afford the prep meds.

Answer

Answer: Simon Collins

Hi

ARVs and PrEP use the same drugs.

But ARV combinations (called ART) use three HIV drugs and PrEP only uses two drugs (tenofovir DF and emtricitabine).

PrEP should be available free in South African clinics.

You can’t use your partners ARVs for PrEP.

52 comments

  1. Christina Antoniadi •

    Hello Bongani and thank you for the question.

    Taking the double dose was good. Keep taking single doses for the next two days.

    No reason to be at risk based on what you write.

    See more information here:
    https://i-base.info/uk-guide-to-prep-february-2024/

  2. Bongani •

    Hie.I’m a heterosexual male,been using 2-1-1 Prep for unprotected sexual encounters with women. Yesterday, I had an unprotected encounter with a woman, but took the double dose about 30 mins before the encounter. Am I at great risk of infection? She claims to be HIV negative but I’m not sure of her status. Also, is on demand Prep suitable for penetrative vaginal sex?