Facts About PrEP

PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a powerful tool in the fight against HIV. It’s a once-daily pill or long-acting injection taken by people who are HIV-negative to help prevent HIV infection before exposure. When used consistently and correctly, PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by up to 99%, and by at least 74% among people who inject drugs. It is one of the most effective methods available for preventing HIV transmission.

How PrEP Works

PrEP contains medications that block HIV from replicating in your body if you are exposed. If the virus can't take hold and multiply, you stay HIV-negative. It works before exposure happens, so it’s important to take PrEP consistently to maintain full protection. There are two primary types of PrEP currently available:

Daily Oral PrEP

A daily pill (Truvada® or Descovy®) taken every day.

Long-Acting Injectable PrEP

A shot (Apretude®) administered by a healthcare provider once every two months after the initial doses.

Your healthcare provider can help determine which option is right for you based on your health needs and lifestyle.

Who Should Consider PrEP?

PrEP is recommended for anyone who may be at increased risk of HIV, including:

• Individuals who are sexually active and do not consistently use condoms
• People with an HIV-positive partner
• Individuals who have multiple sexual partners
• People who engage in sex work
• People who inject drugs and share needles or equipment
• Anyone who wants added peace of mind in managing their sexual health

You don’t have to fit into a specific group—PrEP is for anyone who wants to protect themselves from HIV.

How to Start PrEP

Getting started with PrEP is easier than ever, and Stay Ready Arkansas is here to help:

HIV Test

You must take an HIV test to confirm you are HIV-negative before starting PrEP.

Health Screening

A healthcare provider will review your overall health, including kidney function and potential risk factors.

Get a Prescription

If PrEP is right for you, your provider will prescribe either the daily pill or injectable version.

Ongoing Care

You’ll return for regular follow-up appointments every 2-3 months to monitor your health and continue HIV testing.

Through Stay Ready Arkansas, you may also qualify for at-home HIV testing kits, telehealth consultations, and mail-order prescriptions—making the process even more accessible and convenient.

What About Cost?

Cost should never be a barrier to protection.

Most insurance plans and Medicaid cover the cost of PrEP.

Patient assistance programs and co-pay cards are available to help cover medication, labs, and follow-up visits.

Stay Ready Arkansas can help connect you to low-cost or no-cost PrEP access options, even if you don’t have insurance.

Why PrEP Matters

PrEP empowers people to take control of their health and their future. It helps reduce anxiety around HIV risk, promotes open conversations about sexual health, and reduces the spread of HIV across communities. When combined with regular testing, education, and support, PrEP can help bring us closer to ending the HIV epidemic.

Have Questions?

We’re here to help! Visit our Get PrEP page for more information and frequently asked questions.