HIV-PrEP
Generic Truvada (emtricitabine 200mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300mg) is a once-daily oral medication approved for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). When taken consistently, it reduces the risk of acquiring HIV by 99% through sexual contact and by 74% through injection drug use. Generic Truvada is FDA- approved, clinically proven, and widely used by individuals at higher risk of HIV exposure as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy.
How does it work?
Generic Truvada prevents HIV by blocking the virus’s ability to replicate inside the body:
NRTI Combination Therapy
• Emtricitabine and tenofovir are nucleoside reverse transcriptase
inhibitors (NRTIs). They work by interfering with the HIV enzyme reverse transcriptase, preventing the virus from making copies of itself if exposure occurs.
Prevention Before Exposure
• By maintaining steady levels of the drug in the bloodstream and
mucosal tissues, Truvada ensures HIV cannot establish infection during or after exposure.
High Barrier to Resistance
• When taken daily, Truvada’s dual mechanism offers robust protection with a low chance of viral resistance.
Labs Made Easy
PrEP treatment requires quarterly labs to ensure you are HIV negative, have proper kidney function and are free of Hepatitis B. Don’t worry though, we make it easy! Start our easy online process and you will be given options for in-home testing which is a kit that will be discreetly mailed to your home with free shipping both ways or you can also get labs drawn locally in- person. For all refills, we will reach out in advance to remind you to complete your quarterly labs.
Benefits
✓ Shortens duration and severity of outbreaks
✓ Reduces itching, burning, pain, and discomfort
✓ Suppressive therapy reduces outbreak frequency
and risk of transmission
✓ Effective for both HSV-1 and HSV-2
✓ Fewer daily doses compared to older antivirals
✓ Safe for long-term use in most patients
Get prescription medications tailored for you in 3 easy steps
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect with HIV- PrEP treatment?
- Must take daily for maximum protection—do not skip doses
- Protection begins after:
– 7 days of daily use for receptive anal sex
– 21 days for vaginal sex or injection drug use - Regular follow-up every 3 months with your provider for HIV testing and labs
- If you miss a dose: take it as soon as you remember (but never double up)
- If exposed to HIV and not on PrEP: ask your provider about PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)
What are the possible side effects of HIV- PrEP?
Common (Often mild, may improve over time):
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Abdominal discomfort
- Mild weight loss
Less Common / Monitor With Provider:
- Kidney function changes (requires periodic lab monitoring)
- Decreased bone mineral density
- Rare hypersensitivity reactions
Precautions:
- Not effective if not taken consistently
- Requires confirmed HIV-negative status before starting
- Use caution in patients with reduced kidney function (eGFR <60 mL/min)
- May require hepatitis B screening (Truvada treats HBV and withdrawal can cause flare-ups)
