HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis IN SINGAPORE: STAYING AHEAD OF HIV RISK

HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis entails the use of prescribed medications to reduce the risk of contracting HIV infection. In Singapore, there are two FDA-approved medications demonstrate high efficacy in preventing HIV transmission. In instances of potential HIV exposure through sexual activity or injection drug use, HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis serves as a proactive measure to thwart the establishment of a permanent infection within the body.

EASE OF PREVENTION

Very easy. Just 1 daily pill.

PREVENTION DURATION

On demand or daily

PREVENTION EFFICACY

Over 90% if taken daily

What is PrEP?

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a medication taken to prevent HIV before high risk activity. It works by building up protection in your bloodstream, acting as a barrier that stops the virus from taking hold if you’re exposed. PrEP is recommended for individuals who are at higher risk, such as those with HIV-positive partners, people who don’t always use condoms, or anyone who wants extra peace of mind.

The types of PrEP

Two HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis dosing regimens are available: daily HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis and on-demand HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis. Daily PrEP involves taking medication at any time of the day, with or without food. It requires seven days of consistent use to achieve adequate protection. Potential side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue.

Additionally, on-demand HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis allows for medication intake only when anticipating HIV exposure, eliminating the need for daily dosing. For instance, the “2-1-1” schedule entails taking two pills within 24 hours before unprotected intercourse, followed by one pill daily for the subsequent two days. While on-demand PrEP demonstrates efficacy in anal intercourse, further research is warranted to assess its effectiveness in vaginal intercourse. Studies suggest that on-demand PrEP may offer inferior protection against HIV compared to daily PrEP.

While on-demand HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis may suffice in certain cases, daily tablet usage is recommended for individuals at high risk of HIV transmission. These tablets are generally safe and effective, providing a reliable defense against HIV infection.

Why Prevention Matters

Although individuals living with HIV can lead relatively normal lives with proper medication, there is currently no cure for the infection. Once infected, lifelong HIV medication is necessary, accompanied by potential health complications. This underscores the importance of proactive HIV prevention measures.

While HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis offers significant protection against HIV, it does not guarantee complete immunity. Therefore, it should be complemented by other preventive measures, such as consistent and correct condom use, regular HIV screening, adoption of safer sexual practices, and avoidance of needle sharing. Additionally, it’s crucial to recognise that while PrEP shields against HIV infection, it does not safeguard against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HPV, hepatitis B and C, and gonorrhoea.

HIV Exposure Timeline

Use the slider below to learn about the different stages of HIV exposure

Before high-risk exposure, PrEP is a powerful step in protecting yourself from HIV infection. Whether you're anticipating a new relationship, planning travel, or entering situations with potential HIV risk, starting PrEP in advance ensures your body is prepared. When taken consistently, PrEP can reduce your risk of HIV by up to 99%. It’s peace of mind, built on preparation.
LEARN ABOUT PREP

If you've had a potential HIV exposure, it's important to take action as soon as possible. PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of medication that can prevent HIV infection if started within 72 hours of exposure. The sooner you begin, the more effective it is. Don’t wait for symptoms, PEP is most powerful when started early. Assess your risk and begin treatment without delay.
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Missed the 72-hour window? You can still take action. If it's been less than 20 days since potential exposure, consider getting a NAT (HIV RNA) test. This is an advanced test that detects HIV earlier than standard methods by identifying the virus itself. This allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment, even before antibodies develop. Early detection can make all the difference, so don’t delay testing.
LEARN ABOUT HIV TESTING

The 4th Generation HIV Test is a highly reliable option for early detection, as it identifies both HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen, a protein produced in the early stages of infection. This dual-detection method allows the test to be effective as early as 15 days after exposure, with optimal accuracy between 18 to 45 days. It’s the most commonly recommended screening test for recent exposures.
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3rd Generation HIV tests detect antibodies the body produces in response to HIV infection. These antibodies typically become detectable around day 23 after exposure, making this test reliable from about the third week onwards. It’s best used between day 21 to day 42, offering accurate results during that window.
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Who should consider PrEP?

HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis is recommended for HIV-negative individuals belonging to high-risk groups for HIV transmission, including those with an HIV-positive partner, individuals engaging in risky sexual behaviours, individuals with a recent history of STIs, and individuals injecting drugs or having sexual contact with drug users.

At Hisential STD Clinic, we offer comprehensive HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis services, including teleconsultation for those who prefer a more discreet approach.

Contact our physicians at Hisential STD Clinic to explore how PrEP can empower you to stay protected against HIV transmission.

Think you’ve been exposed to HIV?

Act fast. PEP is for emergency treatment within 72 hours of exposure to reduce your risk of HIV.

Click Here to Learn About PEP

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