PrEP Information – Family Health Centers of San Diego

PrEP: Protect yourself before exposure.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a once-a-day pill that dramatically reduces your risk of contracting HIV. When taken as directed, PrEP is one of the most effective HIV prevention tools available.

Highly Effective

Up to 99% effective when taken daily

Once Daily

One pill a day or injectable option

Covered

Many insurance plans and Medi-Cal

Navigator Support

Call (619) 906-4660 for guidance

Contact Us

Have questions about PrEP or want to schedule an appointment? Fill out the form below and our team will get back to you.

Prefer to call? Reach us at (619) 906-4660 · Schedule via MyHealthRecord

What is PrEP?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a once-a-day medication for HIV-negative individuals that, when taken as directed, can reduce the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99%. Several clinical studies have confirmed its safety and effectiveness as a long-term prevention strategy.

Who Should Take PrEP?

PrEP is recommended for people considered at higher risk for HIV, including those who:

Have a partner who is HIV positive (serodiscordant or mixed couples)

Have had sex or shared needles with someone of unknown HIV status in the past 12 months

Have had sex under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the last 12 months

Have been diagnosed with an STI in the last 12 months

Not sure if PrEP is right for you? A PrEP navigator can walk you through your options and help you set up an appointment if you decide to move forward.

(619) 906-4660

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about getting started with PrEP.

Is PrEP safe?

According to several studies, taking PrEP daily is safe and well tolerated. About 1 in 10 people reported having a headache, stomach pain, or weight loss when they first started — in most cases these side effects improved or disappeared after a few weeks.

A small number of people had a slight decrease in kidney function that returned to normal when the medication was stopped. Small losses in bone density have been observed but have not been associated with increased fractures in studies.

How do I know if PrEP is right for me?

Speaking to a PrEP navigator is the best first step. They can talk you through your options and help you set up an appointment with a provider if you decide PrEP is right for you.

Call (619) 906-4660 to speak with a PrEP navigator today.

How do I talk to my provider about PrEP?

If you think PrEP is a good option, make an appointment with your provider to discuss it. Come prepared for an open and honest conversation about your sexual health.

Before your appointment:

Prepare a medical history including past illnesses and current medications (including supplements and herbs)

Be open and honest — your provider needs full details to help you. They won't judge you

Write down questions to ask, such as: What is required to be prescribed PrEP? How long will it take? What is expected of me after?

Bring a notepad to take notes during the visit

After your appointment:

Review your notes and any information provided by your provider

Consider your options carefully before deciding

Call your provider if you have further questions

Schedule any follow-up exams your provider requested

Get your test results and ask your provider to review them with you

How can I pay for PrEP?

PrEP is covered by many private insurance plans and by Medi-Cal. If you don't have insurance or need help with costs, call (619) 906-4660 to ask about drug assistance programs.

Gilead also offers a copayment assistance program that can help cover costs for those who qualify — including non-US citizens.