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How long will people take PrEP for?

People are not expected to stay on PrEP forever. Experience from the United States shows that people stop taking it when they no longer feel at risk, but may go back to PrEP later. People also stop taking PrEP due to concerns about side-effects or having grown tired of the adherence and clinic visits that are required.

PrEP is best understood as being for periods of months or a few years when the risk of HIV is greatest. This could include during specific relationships, after the break-up of a relationship, at the time of sexual debut, while dealing with drug use problems, or when trying to conceive.

PrEP

Published July 2015

Last reviewed July 2015

Next review July 2018

This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.
Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.