Is PrEP Right for Me?

How Much Does PrEP Cost?

PrEP is currently covered by most insurances. The federal government recently instructed insurance companies to cover all costs associated with PrEP including cost of medication and copays, coinsurance or deductible payments for the quarterly clinic visits and lab tests required to maintain a PrEP prescription. METRO also provides cost assistance and self pay options for those without insurance.

How Effective is PrEP?

PrEP is extremely effective at preventing HIV if taken as prescribed and can reduce your risk for HIV by 99%. 

PrEP becomes most effective for receptive anal sex at around 7 days of use, and 21 days of use for vaginal sex and injection drug use. 

Is PrEP Safe?

PrEP is safe, but people can have some side effects while taking it. Side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. These symptoms do usually go away over time, but you should call your healthcare provider if these symptoms are severe or don’t seem to be going away. 

Can I Stop Using Condoms If I am on PrEP?

While PrEP does help prevent contracting HIV, using PrEP along with condoms better protects you. After all, PrEP only helps prevent HIV. It will not help protect against STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Starting and Stopping PrEP

If and when you’ve decided to start taking PrEP, the only place you can get it from is a healthcare provider. Before beginning, you have to take an HIV test and be HIV negative. While taking PrEP, you’ll visit your healthcare provider every three months for follow-ups, HIV testing, and prescription refills. There is mail-in self-testing and TeleHealth options for those who prefer it. 

If you stopped taking PrEP and would like to start again, simply reach out to your healthcare provider. The process would be the same as when you first began. 

PrEP Services with METRO

Getting started on PrEP with METRO is easy! We proudly offer same-day PrEP appointments, ensuring swift and personalized care in your journey towards HIV prevention. Our on-site Metro Inclusive Pharmacy also facilitates immediate prescription pick-up post-appointment, streamlining the process for your convenience and health security.Schedule an appointment, get a free HIV test, see a PrEP navigator and walk out with a prescription. Telehealth options are also available. 

With our roots in serving the LGBTQ+ community and those at risk for HIV in Tampa Bay, we’re proud to provide inclusive community health services for over 25 years — without judgement and stigma-free.

HIV testing is always free with METRO. 

Schedule your appointment at any of our 9 health centers by visiting Metrotampabay.org/schedule or give us a call at 727-321-3854.