Nootsara B.What Is DESCOVY for PrEP?
DESCOVY for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a once-daily medication prescribed to adults and adolescents at risk of acquiring HIV. It helps reduce the likelihood of acquiring HIV through sexual contact.
Important Considerations:
DESCOVY for PrEP is not suitable for everyone:
- It is not recommended for individuals assigned female at birth who are at risk of HIV from vaginal sex, as its effectiveness in this population has not been studied.
- It is essential to confirm your HIV-negative status before starting and throughout the course of DESCOVY for PrEP.
Key Information About DESCOVY for PrEP
Before and While Taking DESCOVY:
- HIV Testing: You must be HIV-negative before starting DESCOVY for PrEP. Regular HIV-1 tests are required immediately before starting and at least every three months during use. If you suspect recent exposure to HIV-1, inform your healthcare provider immediately for additional testing.
- Flu-like Symptoms: Recent HIV-1 infection may not always be detected. Notify your healthcare provider if you’ve had flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, fever, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes before or while taking DESCOVY.
- Not a Complete HIV Treatment: DESCOVY alone does not treat HIV-1. Do not use it if you are HIV-positive.
- STI Prevention: DESCOVY does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Always use a latex or polyurethane condom for safer sex practices.
To Further Reduce Your Risk of HIV-1:
- Take DESCOVY daily without missing doses, as missed doses may increase your risk.
- Be aware of both your and your partner’s HIV status. If your partner is HIV-positive, their consistent use of HIV treatment can lower your risk.
- Get tested regularly for other STIs, as some can increase your vulnerability to HIV-1.
- Consult your healthcare provider for additional HIV prevention strategies.
Potential Side Effects of DESCOVY
Serious Side Effects:
- Hepatitis B (HBV) Reactivation: Stopping DESCOVY could worsen HBV infection. Always consult your healthcare provider before discontinuing treatment.
- Kidney Problems: Including potential kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should monitor your kidney function with blood and urine tests during treatment.
- Lactic Acidosis: This rare but serious condition may cause symptoms like unusual fatigue, muscle pain, rapid breathing, abdominal pain with nausea, cold or blue extremities, dizziness, or an irregular heartbeat. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
- Severe Liver Problems: Symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, light-coloured stools, persistent nausea, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain. Report these symptoms promptly.
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhoea, nausea, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. Inform your healthcare provider if these symptoms persist or worsen.
Who Should Not Take DESCOVY for PrEP?
Do not use DESCOVY if you: Have been diagnosed with HIV-1 or are unsure of your HIV status. Taking DESCOVY alone when HIV-positive may lead to drug resistance, making the virus harder to treat in the future.
What to Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider Before Taking DESCOVY
- Share your complete medical history, particularly if you have kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis.
- List all medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as DESCOVY may interact with them. Keep this list updated for every new prescription.
By following these guidelines, you can work with your healthcare provider to determine if DESCOVY for PrEP is right for you.
Where to Buy DESCOVY?
For individuals seeking Descovy, PULSE Clinic offers access to this medication with the convenience of worldwide delivery. Contact PULSE Clinic to schedule an appointment and learn more about obtaining DESCOVY.
