Frequenty asked questions
Is PrEP or PIP right for me?
A medical provider can help you answer this question, however an HIV prevention strategy that includes medication may be suitable for anyone who is at increased risk of contracting HIV. This includes people who are in an ongoing relationship with a person living with HIV, anyone who does not or cannot consistently use a condom with a partner whose HIV status is unknown, anyone who shares injection drug or hormone equipment, and anyone who might have difficulty accessing PEP where they live. HIV prevention medications can be beneficial for people of various gender identities and sexual orientations.
How much do HIV prevention medications cost in Ontario?
There are many coverage options for HIV prevention medications and people are often able to access these medications at low or zero out-of-pocket cost. Many pharmacists and healthcare providers can help you navigate these systems.
Can I take HIV prevention medications with other medications?
It is safe to take PrEP, PEP or PIP with most birth control, antibiotics, gender-affirming hormones, methadone, and most recreational and over-the-counter drugs. Tell your provider or pharmacist if you are taking any drugs, medications or supplements.
Is it safe to take HIV prevention medications if I am pregnant or breastfeeding/chestfeeding?
Most PrEP, PEP and PIP medications are safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding/chestfeeding. Talk to your provider about your options.
Do HIV prevention medications protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy?
No. While PrEP/PEP/PIP do not protect against other STIs or unwanted pregnancy, these medications can be used with condoms and other prevention strategies for additional protection.
A medical provider can help you answer this question, however an HIV prevention strategy that includes medication may be suitable for anyone who is at increased risk of contracting HIV. This includes people who are in an ongoing relationship with a person living with HIV, anyone who does not or cannot consistently use a condom with a partner whose HIV status is unknown, anyone who shares injection drug or hormone equipment, and anyone who might have difficulty accessing PEP where they live. HIV prevention medications can be beneficial for people of various gender identities and sexual orientations.
How much do HIV prevention medications cost in Ontario?
There are many coverage options for HIV prevention medications and people are often able to access these medications at low or zero out-of-pocket cost. Many pharmacists and healthcare providers can help you navigate these systems.
Can I take HIV prevention medications with other medications?
It is safe to take PrEP, PEP or PIP with most birth control, antibiotics, gender-affirming hormones, methadone, and most recreational and over-the-counter drugs. Tell your provider or pharmacist if you are taking any drugs, medications or supplements.
Is it safe to take HIV prevention medications if I am pregnant or breastfeeding/chestfeeding?
Most PrEP, PEP and PIP medications are safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding/chestfeeding. Talk to your provider about your options.
Do HIV prevention medications protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy?
No. While PrEP/PEP/PIP do not protect against other STIs or unwanted pregnancy, these medications can be used with condoms and other prevention strategies for additional protection.