PrEP is one of the medical advancements that plays a key role in preventing HIV infection, especially in high-risk populations. With its effectiveness in reducing the risk of infection by up to 99% when used correctly and consistently, PrEP has transformed HIV prevention practices around the world and is widely recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

ยาPrEP ความสำคัญ และบทบาทในการป้องกันเอชไอวี อย่างมีประสิทธิภาพ

What is PrEP?

PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, refers to preventing HIV from spreading before a person has a chance of getting infected. PrEP is a medication designed to reduce the risk of getting HIV from sexual contact or sharing injection needles.

How does PrEP work?

PrEP works by stopping the growth of HIV in the body. If it gets into the bloodstream, it reduces the chances of it attaching to and spreading to CD4 cells, a key cell in the immune system.

  • When taken consistently, people who take PrEP correctly will have enough levels of the drug in their body to prevent HIV from entering cells and multiplying.
  • Effectiveness
  • Sexual prevention: Reduces risk by up to 99%
  • Injecting injection prevention: Reduces risk by up to 74%

Why is PrEP important?

  • Reduces risk in high-risk populations PrEP can reduce the chances of getting HIV in people who have risky behaviors, such as those who have multiple partners or have HIV-infected partners.
  • An additional tool for HIV prevention PrEP does not replace condoms, but it can be an additional tool to increase the effectiveness of HIV prevention.
  • Reduce the spread of HIV in society If PrEP is widely used, it can significantly reduce the number of new infections in society.
  • Promote quality of life PrEP helps reduce anxiety about HIV infection and promotes confidence in life.
ประเภทของยา PrEP

Types of PrEP: Choose the Right One for You to Effectively Prevent HIV

Currently, PrEP is available in a variety of forms to meet the lifestyles and needs of different users.

Currently, there are 2 main types of PrEP:

  • Oral PrEP
  • Long-Acting Injectable PrEP

Each type has the following usage details:

Oral PrEP

Oral tablets are a popular and widely used method because they are easy to use and highly effective. They are divided into 2 main forms:

  • Daily PrEP (daily pills): Taking PrEP every day continuously to maintain sufficient levels of the drug in the bloodstream and tissues. This method is suitable for people who are at risk of continuous HIV infection.
    • Advantages: Suitable for all groups, especially those at high risk, such as those with multiple partners or partners who are HIV-infected. It is 99% effective if used correctly and consistently.
    • Caution: The medication must be taken at the same time every day. To maintain a stable level of medication in the body may not be suitable for those who have trouble following the medication schedule.
  • On-Demand PrEP (take only before exposure) or PrEP on demand is suitable for those who are at risk of infection occasionally, such as those who have infrequent sex.
    • How to use Formula 2+1+1
      • 2 pills: Take 2-24 hours before sex.
      • 1 pill: Take 24 hours after sex.
      • 1 pill: Take again 48 hours after sex.
  • Advantages Suitable for those who do not want to take medication every day. Save money because you do not have to take medication continuously.
  • Precautions Must plan your medication carefully. Not suitable for those who are at risk of frequent HIV infection.

Long-Acting Injectable PrEP

Long-term injectable medication uses Cabotegravir, which is a highly effective antiviral medication. Users must receive injections every 2 months.

Advantages

  • Convenient for those who do not want to take medication every day.
  • Reduces the risk of forgetting to take medication.
  • As effective as PrEP tablets.

Precautions

  • Must receive injections from a doctor or specialist.
  • Side effects such as swelling, redness, or pain at the injection site may occur.
  • Stopping the medication may require a consultation with a doctor to prevent the risk of sudden discontinuation.
ข้อดีของการใช้ PrEP

Benefits of Using PrEP

  • Effectively Reduce the Risk of HIV Infection PrEP has been proven to be the most effective tool for preventing HIV infection, especially in groups with risky behaviors, such as:
    • People who cannot use condoms consistently
    • People who have multiple sexual partners
    • People who have HIV-infected sexual partners
    • PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 99% if taken correctly and consistently
  • Build confidence in daily life Using PrEP reduces anxiety about HIV infection, allowing users to live their daily lives with more confidence, especially in relationships and social situations
  • Promotes quality of life and mental health PrEP not only reduces the risk of HIV infection, but also improves the mental health of users by reducing stress and anxiety about the disease, making users feel safe and have a better quality of life
  • Have a positive impact on society as a whole PrEP plays an important role in reducing the number of new infections at a societal level if widely used. It also helps reduce stigma and misunderstandings about HIV

Side effects to be aware of

PrEP is very safe And it is certified by health organizations around the world. However, some users may experience minor side effects during the initial period of taking the drug, such as:

  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Headache

These side effects usually go away within 1-2 weeks. If users find that their symptoms are more severe or do not go away, they should consult a doctor immediately.

How to use PrEP effectively and safely

  • Check your health before starting the drug. Before starting PrEP, you should consult a doctor and have a thorough health check. The doctor will test for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases to assess whether the user is suitable for PrEP.
  • Take the drug consistently. Taking PrEP consistently is important because missing a dose can reduce the effectiveness of HIV prevention. You should set a time to take the drug each day to help you not forget.
  • Follow up with your doctor regularly. Users should have a health check and follow up with a doctor every 3 months to assess the effectiveness of PrEP and check their overall health.
PrEP เหมาะสำหรับใคร?

Who is PrEP suitable for?

PrEP is an option for people who are at risk or at high risk of getting HIV, including the following groups:

  • People who have a partner who is HIV-infected
    • People who are in a relationship with a partner who is HIV-infected but have not started ART (Antiretroviral Therapy)
    • People who want to increase their confidence in preventing HIV, even if their partner is on treatment or has an undetectable viral load
  • People who have sex without condoms
    • For those who cannot or do not choose to use condoms, PrEP is an effective prevention method that can reduce the risk of getting HIV.
    • PrEP allows users to maintain their freedom to have safe sex.
  • People who have multiple partners
    • Having multiple partners increases the chances of getting HIV.
    • PrEP is a tool that can reduce the risk for people who cannot check the health status of all their partners.
  • Men who have sex with men (MSM)
    • Men who have sex with men are one of the high-risk groups because anal sex has a higher chance of getting HIV than vaginal sex.
    • The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends PrEP for this group in particular.
  • People who share injection needles
    • Sharing injection needles is another important risk factor for HIV infection through the bloodstream.
    • Using PrEP together with counseling to change behavior can help reduce the chance of infection.

Other groups who should consider using PrEP

In addition to the main groups above, PrEP is also suitable for

  • People who work in high-risk occupations, such as those working in the sex industry.
  • People who live in areas with high HIV prevalence, such as areas with high rates of HIV infection in the community.
  • People who are planning to have children, especially couples where one of the partners is infected with HIV, to prevent the transmission between spouses or to children.

Safe and effective use of PrEP

The decision to use PrEP should be under the advice of a medical professional, considering:

  • Health history, HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases testing before starting PrEP.
  • Readiness to take medication regularly, taking PrEP continuously is an important factor in maintaining the effectiveness of the medication.
  • Follow-up with a doctor, should have a health check every 3 months to check the effectiveness of the medication and overall health.

PrEP and its importance in society

PrEP not only reduces the risk of HIV infection at the individual level, but also has a positive impact on society as a whole.

  • Reduce the number of new infections. Widespread use of PrEP can help reduce the spread of HIV in the community.
  • Create a correct understanding of HIV prevention. Promoting the use of PrEP helps reduce stigma and raise awareness about HIV prevention.
  • Promote quality of life. PrEP helps users live more confidently and safely.

Get PrEP at Phuket Medical Clinic, Laguna Branch

For those who want to effectively prevent HIV infection, you can receive PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) at Phuket Medical Clinic, Laguna Branch. Our team of medical experts will provide consultation, basic health check-ups, and recommend how to use the medication that suits your lifestyle.

  • Services provided
  • Health check-ups and PrEP screening
  • Prescribe PrEP medication according to medical guidelines
  • Regular follow-up and health consultations

Make an appointment in advance to receive the service at Phuket Medical Clinic, Laguna Branch for convenient access to medication and appropriate care from medical experts.

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Contact Channels

Laguna Branch

  • Phuket Medical Clinic, Laguna Branch is located at 58/1, Cherngtalay Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket Province 83100
  • Open every day, Monday – Sunday, 09.00 – 22.00 hrs.
  • Inquire via Line id. @pmcphuket (with @)
  • Contact number 096 236 2449
  • Clinic map https://maps.app.goo.gl/SXaeLrSU9Lx47YPH6
  • Book an appointment online https://pmclaguna.youcanbook.me

Branch in the city

Boat Lagoon Branch

  • Phuket Medical Clinic Boat Lagoon Branch is located at 20/96. Moo 2, Thepkrasattri Rd., Koh Kaew Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket Province 83000
  • Open every day, Monday – Sunday, 10.00 – 18.00 hrs.
  • Inquire via Line ID. @pmcphuket (with @)
  • Contact number 096 696 2449
  • Clinic map https://maps.app.goo.gl/HbqfUKMEHXuKwan96
  • Book an appointment online https://pmctown.youcanbook.me

PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a medical innovation that is widely recognized as one of the most effective ways to prevent HIV infection today. When used correctly and consistently, PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 99%, allowing at-risk populations to live with more confidence.น

PrEP not only protects users from contracting HIV, but also plays an important role in improving quality of life, reducing anxiety about the risk of infection, and helping to reduce HIV-related stigma in society.

PrEP also plays an important role at the community and societal level, helping to reduce the number of new infections and promote a wider understanding of HIV prevention. If you are considering using PrEP or have questions about its use, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional for the most accurate and appropriate advice.

Reference

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV Prevention. [ออนไลน์] เข้าถึงได้จาก: https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/prep.html
  • World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Consolidated guidelines on HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care for key populations. [ออนไลน์] เข้าถึงได้จาก: https://www.who.int
  • กระทรวงสาธารณสุขแห่งประเทศไทย. (2023). แนวทางเวชปฏิบัติการใช้ยา PrEP เพื่อป้องกันการติดเชื้อเอชไอวี. เว็บไซต์ กรมควบคุมโรค กระทรวงสาธารณสุข. [ออนไลน์] เข้าถึงได้จาก: http://www.ddc.moph.go.th
  • สถาบันบำราศนราดูร. (2023). แนวทางการใช้ยา PrEP สำหรับประชากรกลุ่มเสี่ยงในประเทศไทย. [ออนไลน์] เข้าถึงได้จาก: https://www.bamras.org
  • มูลนิธิเอดส์แห่งประเทศไทย (Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre). (2023). แนวทางการใช้ PrEP และบริการสุขภาพสำหรับกลุ่มเสี่ยงในประเทศไทย. [ออนไลน์] เข้าถึงได้จาก: https://www.trcarc.org