This resource is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a healthcare provider about your individual needs.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medication that helps prevent HIV transmission. It’s for sexually active adults who are HIV negative, regardless of sexual orientation. Health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) support the use of PrEP as a highly effective way to prevent HIV transmission through sex and injection drug use when taken as prescribed.
PrEP is available as pills (oral PrEP) and as a long-acting injectable, which is given on a set schedule by a healthcare provider. This article focuses on oral PrEP. If you’d like to learn more about long-acting injectable PrEP, check out our article on injectable PrEP.
What is Oral PrEP?
Oral PrEP is HIV prevention medication taken by mouth. There are two oral PrEP options available. A healthcare provider can help you choose the option that best fits your body, your risk, and your lifestyle.
What PrEP Does (and Doesn’t) Do
PrEP is very effective at preventing HIV when used correctly. It is not a treatment for people who have HIV. PrEP does not protect against other STIs. WHO and CDC guidance notes that many people who use PrEP also combine it with regular STI testing, use condoms, and other prevention tools.
Oral PrEP Options
Daily PrEP
Daily PrEP means taking one pill once a day, every day. It’s prescribed by a healthcare provider and can offer ongoing protection.
Event Driven PrEP (2+1+1)
Event Driven PrEP, also called 2+1+1, is an oral PrEP option used around specific sexual encounters instead of every day. It involves taking pills before and after sex.
According to the CDC guidelines, this option is recommended for people who:
- Have sex less often than once per week
- Can plan ahead or delay sex so the first two pills are taken at least 2 hours before sex
- Specifically requested this option after talking with a healthcare provider
A healthcare provider can help you decide whether event-driven PrEP is a good and safe fit for you.
Starting Oral PrEP and Ongoing Check-Ins
According to the WHO and CDC guidelines, there are a few tests you’ll need before starting oral PrEP. These help make sure PrEP is safe and right for you. They usually include:
- an HIV test to confirm you do not have HIV
- STI testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis
- a kidney function test
- a lipid (cholesterol) test, in some cases
While you’re on oral PrEP, you’ll have regular check-ins with a healthcare provider. These visits help monitor your health, repeat HIV and STI testing, and make sure PrEP continues to work well for you.
Access and Availability
Oral PrEP is available in many countries around the world, including through public health systems, HIV clinics, community organizations, and private providers. In some places, PrEP is offered for free or at low cost through national HIV programs, while in others it may be available through insurance or out-of-pocket payment.
- In the United States, you can search for PrEP providers at preplocator.org.
- For information about PrEP availability outside the U.S., including country-by-country updates, visit PrEPWatch.
Access, cost, and eligibility can vary by country and region, so local HIV organizations or healthcare providers are often the best place to start.
To learn more about PrEP options and how they work, visit this page.
Disclaimer
This content is provided by Grindr for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as, and should not be understood as, medical, legal, or professional advice. Grindr is not a healthcare provider and does not provide medical recommendations. Treatment and healthcare decisions should be made in consultation with qualified healthcare providers based on individual circumstances. Medical guidelines and research findings referenced in this content are subject to change as new evidence emerges. For support services and resources, explore the Looking for LGBTQ+ Community Assistance? page. For information about HIV testing sites in your region or country, visit the HIV Testing Services page. Last updated: 2026.