HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

If you’re at risk for HIV through sex or injection drug use, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) can help you stay protected and give you peace of mind.

PrEP is a safe, effective medicine that lowers your risk of HIV before exposure happens. It works by blocking the virus from taking hold in your body if exposure occurs. When taken as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV by about 99% through sex and at least 74% through injection drug use.

The CDC recommends PrEP for anyone who may be at risk for HIV. That includes people with multiple sexual partners, those who share needles or anyone who wants added protection.

At MU Health Care, our infectious disease and primary care providers offer expert PrEP support. We’ll talk with you about the differences between daily pills and long-acting injections given every two or six months, so you can decide the option that best suits your needs.

Most insurance plans cover PrEP. If cost is a concern, we can connect you with assistance programs to help protect your health now and in the future.

PrEP Treatment at MU Health Care

PrEP helps prevent HIV before exposure. It’s different from PEP, which is taken after a possible exposure. With PrEP, you take it in advance — as an ongoing medication — to lower your risk.

We offer several PrEP options:

  • Daily oral medication, including brand-name Descovy®, brand-name Truvada® and multiple generic versions of Truvada®.
  • Long-acting injectable PrEP, including Apretude® every two months and Yeztugo® every six months. 
  • PrEP on Demand (2-1-1 dosing) for select patients based on individual needs and risk factors.

Our infectious disease and primary care teams will help you choose the right option and arrange any follow-up testing needed to monitor your health.

Am I a Candidate for HIV PrEP?

PrEP is for people of all genders and backgrounds.

You may benefit from HIV PrEP if you:

  • Have unprotected sex
  • Have multiple partners
  • Have a partner living with HIV
  • Inject drugs or share injection equipment
  • Want added protection from HIV

What Tests Do I Need Before Starting PrEP?

Before starting PrEP, we’ll confirm your HIV status and order lab tests based on the option you choose. These may include:

These tests help ensure PrEP is effective for you.

Our Approach to PrEP Treatment

At MU Health Care, we work to create a safe, respectful space where you can talk openly about your health, risk factors and personal goals without judgment.

Your Care Team

Your provider stays involved at every step of your care and helps you make informed decisions about your sexual health.

When needed, we also collaborate with specialists such as:

  • Case managers
  • Columbia/Boone County Public Health and other public health departments in Missouri 
  • Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS officers)
  • Ending the HIV Epidemic program
  • Infectious disease specialists
  • OB/GYN
  • Pediatric infectious disease
  • Primary care
  • Other specialists as needed

This coordinated approach helps ensure you receive thorough care and ongoing support.

What to Expect with PrEP

HIV PrEP is a preventive medicine that fits into your daily life. It’s available by prescription, with no referral needed.

PrEP is generally safe when taken as prescribed under your provider’s supervision. Your provider can talk with you about possible side effects and which option is right for you.

Here’s what the process looks like:

  • Before treatment: You’ll meet with a provider to talk through your goals, health history and HIV prevention needs. You’ll also complete baseline lab work.
  • During treatment: You’ll start a daily pill or receive a long-acting injection every two or six months. Your care team will monitor for side effects and adjust your plan if needed.
  • After treatment begins: You’ll return for regular follow-ups and repeat labs. Our team helps with insurance approvals, and commercial assistance programs offer free PrEP if you have limited income or no coverage. MU Health Care’s specialty pharmacy supports you every step of the way, from financial assistance to home delivery when available.

Ongoing Support

PrEP helps protect you from HIV, but it doesn’t prevent other STIs. Using condoms along with HIV PrEP can lower your risk of getting other STIs.

At MU Health Care, we’re here for more than just prescriptions. We offer a judgment-free space to talk about your sexual health, answer questions and help you feel confident in your prevention plan.

Our team can help arrange routine testing, STI treatment and personalized support — all through a model that blends medical care with public health expertise so you can feel informed and cared for.

Clinical Trials

Interested in learning more about our clinical trials?

View Trials

Contact

  • Call 573-882-8788 to learn more about PrEP and schedule a consultation.
  • Our clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m