PrEP: What You Need to Know

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): What You Need to Know

Tuesday, July 29th, at 7:30pm
At The LOFT

You’re seeing it in the news; a little blue pill called Truvada that, taken daily, offers a 99% reduction in the risk of contracting HIV, and referred to as PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). However, there is a lot more information needed before individuals should just run off to see their doctor for a prescription. There are many questions that need to be answered:

* How did this all come about? Was there a study?
* Does it have to be taken daily?
* What else does it protect me from?
* Is it recommended that I still have to wear a condom?
* Will my health insurance cover it?
* Would I still have to be tested for HIV if I chose to go on PrEP?
* Are there risks or side effects?

Also covered will be PEP, or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, which involves taking anti-HIV medications as soon as possible after you may have been exposed to HIV to try to reduce the chance of becoming HIV positive.

Join the LOFT as Bryn Ritchie, the Prevention Specialist of HVCS’ Project INFORM, gives us the low-down on what you need to know about PrEP and PEP, followed by a Q&A discussion with Bryn, LOFT staff, and other attendees about the controversies, myths, opinions, and arguments for and against the use of PrEP.

Attendees will receive a $5 Starbucks Gift Card. There will also be giveaways like messenger bags, sex toys, condoms, lube, and plenty of snacks.