Introduction HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective method of preventing HIV transmission. Traditional PrEP involves taking a once-daily pill, typically containing the antiretroviral drugs tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and emtricitabine (FTC), to reduce the risk of HIV infection. However, a newer approach to PrEP, called event-based PrEP, has gained popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we will explore what event-based PrEP is, how it works, and its advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional PrEP.
What is event-based PrEP?
Event-based PrEP, also known as “on-demand PrEP” or “intermittent PrEP,” involves taking PrEP medication around the time of a potential HIV exposure, rather than taking it daily. The recommended dosing for event-based PrEP is two pills of TDF/FTC, taken 2-24 hours before anticipated sexual activity, followed by one pill 24 hours later and another pill 48 hours later.
The rationale behind event-based PrEP is that it reduces the overall number of pills that need to be taken, which can be more convenient for some people, and potentially reduces the overall cost of PrEP. Additionally, event-based PrEP may be a more attractive option for people who do not engage in frequent or regular sexual activity.
How effective is event-based PrEP?
Studies have shown that event-based PrEP can be highly effective at preventing HIV transmission. The IPERGAY trial, a randomized controlled trial conducted in France and Canada, found that event-based PrEP reduced the risk of HIV infection by 86% compared to a placebo. Another study, called the ANRS-Prévenir study, conducted in France, found that event-based PrEP was non-inferior to daily PrEP in terms of efficacy.
It is important to note that the efficacy of event-based PrEP is dependent on adherence to the dosing regimen. In the IPERGAY trial, participants were given specific instructions on when to take their medication, and adherence was closely monitored. It is unclear if event-based PrEP would be as effective in a real-world setting where adherence is not as strictly monitored.
Advantages of event-based PrEP:
Event-based PrEP offers several advantages over traditional daily PrEP. For some people, taking a pill every day can be challenging, and event-based PrEP may be a more feasible option. Additionally, event-based PrEP may be more cost-effective, as fewer pills need to be taken overall. For people who do not engage in frequent or regular sexual activity, event-based PrEP may be a more attractive option, as it does not require daily medication.
Disadvantages of event-based PrEP:
There are some potential disadvantages to event-based PrEP. One of the main concerns is that adherence to the dosing regimen may be more challenging than taking a daily pill. If the dosing regimen is not followed correctly, the effectiveness of event-based PrEP may be reduced. Additionally, event-based PrEP may not be suitable for everyone, as it is primarily recommended for people engaging in episodic or infrequent sexual activity.
Another potential disadvantage is that event-based PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is still important to use condoms and get regular STI testing, regardless of whether you are taking PrEP.
Is event-based PrEP right for me?
Whether event-based PrEP is the right option for you depends on your individual circumstances. If you engage in regular sexual activity, daily PrEP may be a more appropriate option. However, if you engage in episodic or infrequent sexual activity, event-based PrEP may be a viable option for you. If you are considering to buy PrEP online, DeliverDose can help you in getting the medication right at your doorstep in discreet packaging.
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