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 can be taken in different ways. Oral PrEP (pills) can be taken daily or on-demand around sex. PrEP is also available as a long-acting injectable, given on a set schedule by a healthcare provider. Both options are supported by the WHO and CDC. This article focuses on long-acting injectable PrEP. If you’d like to learn more about oral PrEP options, check out our article on oral PrEP.
What is Long-Acting Injectable PrEP?
Long-acting injectable PrEP is a shot that helps prevent HIV in people who are HIV negative. Some people choose injectable PrEP because they prefer not to take pills or because fewer doses better fit their lifestyle. A healthcare provider gives the injection and helps monitor how well the medication is working for you.
Available Injectable PrEP Options
Currently, two long-acting injectable medications are included in the WHO and CDC guidelines. Approval and availability can vary by country:
- Cabotegravir is given every two month
- Lenacapavir is given every six months (twice a year)
Both options are considered highly effective at preventing HIV when used as prescribed.
Cabotegravir is given as one injection into a muscle, usually in the buttocks. Lenacapavir is given as two injections under the skin, usually in the abdomen or thigh.
Starting Injectable PrEP and Ongoing Check-Ins
A healthcare provider can explain how PrEP works, talk through your options (pill-based and injectable), and help you decide what’s right for you. Before starting long-acting injectable PrEP, the WHO and CDC recommend getting an HIV test.
If you are on long-acting injectable PrEP, you’ll check in with a healthcare provider every two months (for cabotegravir) or six months (for lenacapavir). These visits usually include an HIV test, sexually transmitted infections (STI) screening, and general health check-ins.
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.
Access and Availability
Long-acting injectable PrEP is approved and rolling out in many countries. According to PrEPWatch, cabotegravir is approved in over 50 countries, including the United States, Australia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Brazil. Lenacapavir is expected to become available through early access programs in multiple countries in 2026.
If you are interested in PrEP, local HIV organizations and healthcare providers can help you understand what options are available where you live and how to access them.
In the US, you can find PrEP at preplocator.org.
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.