HIV prevention · By appointment · Confidential
Oral HIV PrEP in Lagos
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a tablet that HIV-negative people take every day to prevent HIV. Our doctors prescribe oral PrEP, run the tests you need before you start, and follow you up every three months at our Akoka clinic. Everything is confidential.
PrEP is for before a possible exposure. If you may have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, you need PEP, emergency HIV prevention, today.
Who PrEP is for
PrEP is worth discussing with a doctor if you are HIV-negative and any of these apply to you.
Your partner has HIV
Especially if they are not yet on treatment or their viral load is not known to be undetectable.
Condoms are not always used
With a new partner, more than one partner, or a partner whose HIV status you do not know.
You recently had an STI
A recent diagnosis of syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia or herpes means you are at ongoing risk.
You share needles or injecting equipment
PrEP also protects against HIV passed on through blood.
What we offer, and what we don't
Oral PrEP only
We prescribe daily oral PrEP (one tablet a day). We do not offer injectable PrEP.
All the tests in one place
The HIV test, kidney function test, hepatitis B test and STI screen you need are done here, in our own lab.
Prevention, not HIV treatment
If an HIV test is positive, our doctor explains the result and refers you to an HIV treatment centre. We do not provide HIV treatment.
Confidential
Your visit and results stay between you and the clinic. Nothing is shared without your written consent.
How starting PrEP works
Book a consultation
Consultations are by appointment, Monday to Saturday. The doctor asks about your situation and checks that PrEP is right for you.
Tests before you start
An HIV test (you must be HIV-negative to start), a kidney function test, a hepatitis B test and an STI screen. Women may also have a pregnancy test. Results are usually ready the same day.
Prescription and a plan
The doctor prescribes oral PrEP, explains how to take it, when protection starts and what side effects to expect, and gives you a follow-up date.
Follow-up every 3 months
An HIV test and STI screen at each visit, a kidney check as the doctor advises, and your prescription renewed. If you want to stop, tell the doctor first.
Good to know
- Protection builds up. Taken daily, PrEP reaches full protection after about 7 days for anal sex and up to 21 days for vaginal sex. The doctor will tell you when you are covered.
- Take it every day. Missed doses lower your protection. If you often forget, tell the doctor so you can plan around it.
- PrEP prevents HIV only. It does not protect against other STIs or pregnancy. Condoms still matter, and regular STI screening is part of PrEP care.
- Side effects are usually mild. Some people have nausea or a headache in the first few weeks, which usually settles. Tell the doctor about anything that does not.
- Do not stop suddenly without advice, especially if you have hepatitis B. The doctor will plan a safe stop with you.
PrEP questions
Do I need an HIV test before starting PrEP?
Yes. PrEP is only for people who are HIV-negative, so an HIV test is done at the first visit and repeated every three months while you take it.
How often do I come back?
Every three months for an HIV test, an STI screen and a new prescription. A kidney function test is repeated as the doctor advises.
Does PrEP protect against other STIs?
No. PrEP prevents HIV only. Condoms protect against other STIs, and your three-monthly visits include an STI screen.
I had unprotected sex in the last 3 days. Is PrEP what I need?
No. For a possible exposure in the last 72 hours you need PEP, a 28-day course started as soon as possible. Come in today. After PEP, the doctor can discuss moving on to PrEP if you have ongoing risk.
Do you offer injectable PrEP?
No. We offer daily oral PrEP only.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Your consultation, tests and prescription are confidential. You can also WhatsApp us first if you prefer to ask questions before coming in.
How much does PrEP cost?
A consultation fee applies, plus the tests. Current prices are on our pricing page. Ask the doctor about the cost of the tablets themselves.
Start PrEP with a confidential consultation
By appointment, Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM, at 52 Sholanke Street, off Chemist Junction, Akoka, Lagos.
Quick answers
Where can I get HIV PrEP (oral) near Yaba or Akoka?
At Mascot Healthcare, 52 Sholanke Street, off Chemist Junction, Akoka, Lagos. We are a short keke ride from the Unilag gate and close to Yaba, Bariga, Shomolu and Gbagada. Directions from your area.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. Consultations are by appointment, so please book before you come. Book online, call 0816 586 6252 or WhatsApp 0903 185 8761. Same-day slots are often available.
How much does HIV PrEP (oral) cost?
Prices change, so we don't print them on this page. The current price is on our live price list, or call 0816 586 6252 to ask.
When are you open?
Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM. We are closed on Sundays and Nigerian public holidays.
Can I come here in an emergency?
No. We don't handle emergencies. For chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke, heavy bleeding or any other emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 112.
Do you accept HMO or health insurance?
Not at the moment. You pay at the clinic by cash, card, POS or bank transfer.
Last updated 13 November 2026.