🛡️ Medication Guide

Antiretroviral / HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis

PrEP — HIV Prevention Medication

A daily pill that prevents HIV infection in HIV-negative people.

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication taken by HIV-negative people to prevent HIV infection. When taken correctly, it is over 99% effective at preventing HIV transmission through sex. It is available in Nigeria and is a powerful tool for HIV prevention.

📋 Patient Information Guide. This page explains how this medication works in plain language. It does not replace your doctor's advice. Always take medication as prescribed and discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist.

What It Is Used For

✓ HIV prevention in HIV-negative people at risk

✓ People with HIV-positive partners

✓ People who do not consistently use condoms

✓ Sex workers

✓ Men who have sex with men (MSM)

✓ People who inject drugs

How It Works

PrEP contains two antiretroviral drugs (tenofovir and emtricitabine) that block the enzymes HIV needs to copy itself in the body. When the drugs are present in sufficient levels (built up over 7–21 days of daily dosing), HIV that enters the body cannot establish infection. PrEP works before exposure — it does not treat HIV if infection has already occurred.

Dosing — Typical Guidance

Daily PrEP

One tablet once daily at the same time each day — the standard regimen. Protection builds up after 7 days for anal sex; 21 days for vaginal sex.

On-demand PrEP (event-based)

Two tablets 2–24 hours before sex, then one tablet 24 hours later, then one tablet 48 hours after the first dose. Only recommended for anal sex and MSM — requires specific medical guidance.

Ongoing

Continue daily dosing as long as at-risk. Review with your doctor every 3 months.

⏰ Missed a dose? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember that day. If you realise the next day, skip the missed dose and continue as normal. Missing doses reduces protection significantly — consistency is critical.

Side Effects

Common (early)

Nausea, headache, or diarrhoea in the first 2–4 weeks. Usually resolves on its own.

Continue taking — informs your doctor if severe or persistent.

Uncommon

Mild decrease in kidney function or bone density with long-term use

Monitored by 3-monthly blood tests. Usually reverses when PrEP is stopped.

Rare

Significant kidney impairment (rare with normal baseline kidney function)

Kidney function tested before starting PrEP and every 3 months.

Who Should Avoid This Medication

Who Should Not Take This (or Use With Caution)

⚠️ People who are already HIV-positive — PrEP is not treatment for HIV; it could cause drug resistance
⚠️ People with significantly impaired kidney function
⚠️ People with unknown HIV status — must test HIV-negative before starting

Drug Interactions to Know

Medication / Substance	Why It Matters
NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac)	Regular use may affect kidney function when combined with tenofovir. Use sparingly.
Adefovir (hepatitis B treatment)	Should not be used with tenofovir-based PrEP.
Hepatitis B medication consideration	Tenofovir also treats hepatitis B. Stopping PrEP abruptly in people with hepatitis B can cause hepatitis B flare — always discuss with your doctor before stopping.

Monitoring While on This Medication

HIV test

Every 3 months — mandatory. PrEP must be stopped immediately if HIV infection occurs.

Kidney function (creatinine/eGFR)

Before starting, then every 3 months.

STI screen

Every 3 months — gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis.

Hepatitis B status

Before starting PrEP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor's prescription for PrEP in Nigeria?

Yes. PrEP requires a prescription and monitoring. We can provide a complete PrEP service including testing, prescription, and 3-monthly follow-up at Mascot Healthcare.

Is PrEP available in Nigeria?

Yes — it is available in Nigeria, including through private clinics like Mascot Healthcare. It has become more accessible in recent years.

Does PrEP mean I do not need condoms?

PrEP protects against HIV but not other STIs. Condoms provide additional protection against gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis, and herpes. Both together give maximum protection.

What happens if I stop taking PrEP?

Protection decreases as drug levels fall. Stop gradually — and always with medical guidance, especially if you have hepatitis B. You can restart PrEP later if your circumstances change.

Is PrEP suitable for women?

Yes — daily oral PrEP is equally effective for women. It takes 21 days (compared to 7 days for anal sex) to reach full protection for vaginal sex.

Questions about your medication?

Our doctors and pharmacists can review your prescription, explain your treatment, and address any concerns — confidentially.

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