At Osra Medical, we are an inclusive concierge doctor with a mission to provide others with access to sexual health care and treatment in an open and nonjudgemental environment. That’s why an important part of our mission is to inform our patients and the community about the different options for HIV prevention available to them.

One of the most common types of HIV prevention is the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis medications, more commonly abbreviated to PrEP. These are regular oral or injectable medicines and are growing to become one of the most popular and effective options for HIV prevention.

If you’re exploring HIV prevention options, you may have heard about Descovy for PrEP. But what is Descovy, and how does it compare to other pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications? In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Descovy, including its benefits, side effects, and who it’s best suited for.

Descovy is an FDA-approved daily medication from the pharmaceutical manufacturer, Gilead Sciences, used for HIV prevention in individuals at risk of contracting the virus. It contains two active ingredients: emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, which work together to block the HIV virus from replicating and establishing a permanent infection in the body.

However, it’s important to note that Descovy for PrEP is currently only approved for:

• Individuals assigned male at birth (including cisgender men, transgender women, and AMAB nonbinary individuals) who are at risk through anal sex.
• It is not yet approved for people assigned female at birth who are at risk through vaginal sex.

Additionally, Descovy should not be taken if:

• You are already HIV-positive.
• You have Hepatitis B (HBV), as stopping the medication could worsen HBV infection.

One of the key advantages of Descovy for PrEP is its simplicity:

• One pill per day, with or without food.
• Must be taken consistently to maintain effectiveness.

Unlike event-driven or emergency post-exposure prophylaxis (referred to as PEP, where medication is taken only around the time of potential exposure), Descovy requires daily adherence for optimal protection.

1. Smaller Pill Size: Easier to swallow and no worry of needles.
2. Potentially Fewer Side Effects: Studies suggest it may have less impact on bone density and kidney function than Truvada, another popular PrEP medication.
3. Effective for High-Risk Groups: Particularly beneficial for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women at risk of HIV through anal sex.

Choosing the best PrEP method depends on several factors:

• Daily vs. On-Demand: Do you prefer a daily pill, or would an event-driven option work better for your specific use scenario?
• Delivery Method: Are you comfortable with oral medication, or would you prefer a long-acting injectable?
• Insurance Coverage: Check with your provider to see which PrEP options are covered under your plan.

While many people tolerate Descovy well, some may experience:

Common side effects:

• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.
• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Stomach discomfort.

Rare but serious side effects (seek medical attention if these occur):

• Lactic acidosis (buildup of lactic acid in the blood).
• Kidney problems, including kidney failure.
• Severe liver problems.

If you experience any concerning symptoms while on a PrEP or PEP regimen, contact your primary healthcare provider, like our team at Osra Medical, immediately.

One of the benefits of working with a concierge practice like Osra Medical is that we meet with you on your schedule and provide you greater access to personalized one-on-one care than compared to the traditional medical system.

Take the Next Step for PrEP with Osra Medical

At Osra Medical, our LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare team is here to help you navigate your PrEP choices. If you’re ready to explore Descovy for PrEP or other HIV prevention strategies, Dr. Nasser Mohamed is here to guide you alongside the rest of our medical network.

Whether you’re considering Apretude, Descovy for PrEP, Truvada, or other injectable options, we’ll work with you to find the best fit for your lifestyle and health needs. Schedule a consultation to learn more about our concierge medical practice and see if it will be a good fit for you.