This year's shortage showed us it’s never too late to learn about PrEP

This year’s shortage showed us that many still don’t understand PrEP, so PrEP Access Now break down how it’s protecting people from HIV infection.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a game-changing antiretroviral drug that has helped protect people from HIV infection.

But Australians had to stockpile or go without earlier this year due to a shortage in supply.

While that has picked up, it highlighted a need for better communication about accessing HIV prevention strategies and what to do when you can’t.

PReP Access Now provides support in many forms, including improving access to PrEP for those who need it.

They’re leading the way when it comes to information and communication about this proven and effective means to greatly reduce the chance of getting HIV.

Stock of PrEP is returning

“A lot of people have been concerned because they’re running out or have run out of PrEP,” Chairman Jon Kok said.

“Sharing that they have been avoiding sexual activity or taking PrEP on demand.”

This means taking two pills 2-24 hours before sex, one pill 24 hours after the first dose, and one pill 24 hours after the second dose.

“There are several chemists that now have stock,” he added.

“So people have had to spend some time ringing around to source their PrEP.

“As we have seen this year, a shortage can come on suddenly, so it’s best to make sure you have some in reserve.

“You can even plan and order from overseas. It does look like there’s a much more stable supply in the foreseeable future. But there are options available to you if you need them.”

With the holidays approaching, we asked about some good reminders for people on PrEP.

“If you are having a lot of sex, you should probably stick to daily PrEP,”Jon added.

“It is okay to miss a dose, which can happen over the holidays.

“The evidence shows that if you’re having at least four doses a week, you are maintaining your coverage.”

Protection looks different for all of us

For some, the best way for them to avoid the risk of HIV is through condoms, others, it’s PrEP whether daily or on demand.

The shortage created a space for conversations about the drug that should continue.

Conversations frrom how to source it to how to take it helps break down the stigma many have around it.

“One of the most important things that has come out of prep as a whole is that it’s helped people to be less scared of having sex,” Jon said.

“It’s not something we need to be scared of.

“We’ve found people leaning on each other and using the community and making sure that they don’t have to go back to being afraid, and that is really important.

“If you want to start PrEP, your first step is to get an STI check and speak to your clinician. Reach out to us if you would like to learn more.”

You can check out PAN’s website for more general PrEP information here.