HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventative measure for individuals at risk of contracting HIV. It involves the daily use of antiretroviral medication to reduce the likelihood of infection. When taken consistently, PrEP has been shown to lower the risk of HIV transmission significantly. It complements other preventive measures by providing additional protection.

PrEP Suitability Effectiveness Treatment Prevention FAQ

What is HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis?

PrEP is a medical intervention that aims to prevent HIV before exposure. It works by creating a defence against the virus, stopping it from establishing an infection in the body. Unlike Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), which is used after potential exposure, PrEP is intended for ongoing use by individuals who may be exposed to HIV regularly. PrEP does not provide protection against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Who Should Consider PrEP?

PrEP is suitable for individuals with ongoing or periodic exposure to situations with a higher likelihood of HIV transmission. These may include:

Individuals with a HIV-positive partner.
People engaging in unprotected sex with partners whose HIV status is unknown or who are at higher risk of HIV infection.
Individuals who inject drugs and share needles.
Those who frequently require PEP due to repeated exposure risks.
Individuals with multiple sexual partners.

How Effective is PrEP?

When taken daily as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of acquiring HIV by up to 99% in cases of sexual transmission and by at least 74% among those who inject drugs. PrEP must be combined with regular HIV testing to ensure continued protection and appropriate treatment.

How Does PrEP Work?

PrEP contains antiretroviral medications that block HIV from replicating in the body. If the virus is introduced during a high-risk encounter, the medication stops it from establishing a permanent infection. It reaches protective levels in the body after approximately seven days of daily use for anal sex and about 21 days for vaginal sex or injection drug use. A healthcare provider will confirm that the individual is HIV-negative before starting PrEP, as it is not suitable for treating existing infections.

PrEP Treatment Process

PrEP involves taking a daily pill on an ongoing basis. Skipping doses can reduce its effectiveness, so adherence to the regimen is necessary. Some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as nausea, headache, or fatigue, which typically improve over time.

Follow-up appointments, generally scheduled every three months, are an integral part of the treatment process. These visits include HIV testing, kidney function monitoring, and prescription renewals to ensure the medication continues to meet the individual’s needs.

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PrEP and Long-Term HIV Prevention

PrEP works best as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy. It is most effective when combined with other measures such as condom use, regular HIV and STI testing, safe drug injection practices, and open communication with partners about sexual health. While PrEP reduces the risk of HIV, it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections. Adopting multiple preventive practices reduces overall health risks.

Contact Dr Taufiq

Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid

MBBS (NUS)

Member of SASO

Member of SMHS

Member Of ISSM

With over 15 years of experience in clinical practice and healthcare management, Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid focuses on men’s health and weight management. He is also a member of the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM), reflecting his continued commitment to men’s wellness.

His care approach incorporates evidence-based medical procedures and tailored solutions designed to meet individual needs.

Dr Taufiq’s professional background spans a range of medical disciplines, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to guide patients in achieving their health goals. He is certified in circumcision techniques using the Shang Ring and ZSR Stapler methods, offering efficient and minimally invasive procedures completed in less than 15 minutes.

Education, Experience & Affiliations

Dr. Taufiq began his medical career as a Medical Officer under MOHH from 2006 to 2014, gaining valuable experience in multidisciplinary healthcare at Alexandra Hospital, KK Hospital, Bright Vision Hospital, and AMK THK Hospital.

From July 2017 to March 2021, he served as Chief Resident Physician at DTAP Clinic Somerset Branch, focusing on men’s health and providing holistic, patient-centered care.

As Medical Director at Pulse Medical Centre from April 2021 to December 2024, Dr. Taufiq led multidisciplinary care and advanced patient-first practices.

He holds certifications in ShangRing Circumcision, ZSR Stapler Circumcision, SCOPE certification, and ShangRing Training (Wuhu, Snnda, 2018). He is also a Certified Trainer for ShangRing Circumcision, ZSR Stapler Circumcision, Touchstone Circumcision, and the Storz T-Top Duolith Shockwave Therapy Machine.

In 2024, he completed the Androcourse under the Society of Men’s Health Singapore. Dr. Taufiq is a member of the Society of Men’s Health Singapore (SMHS), the Singapore Association for the Study of Obesity (SASO), and the International Society of Sexual Medicine (ISSM), reflecting his ongoing commitment to men’s health and weight management.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take PrEP only during periods of higher risk (on-demand PrEP)?

On-demand PrEP (also called event-based dosing) involves taking pills before and after sexual activity instead of daily. This method is effective for anal sex but is not approved for vaginal sex or injection drug use. Consult your doctor for guidance if you are considering this option.

What happens if I stop taking PrEP?

If you stop taking PrEP, your protection against HIV will decrease over time. For anal sex, protective levels drop within a week; for vaginal sex, they decline after about three weeks.

Can PrEP cause resistance to HIV medications?

If an individual unknowingly acquires HIV while on PrEP and continues taking the medication, there is a risk of developing drug-resistant HIV. Regular HIV testing minimises this risk.