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Heterosexuals

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV Prevention

This information sheet discusses CDC's first comprehensive guidelines for use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as a means of preventing HIV. PrEP is a way to prevent HIV by taking a pill containing two drugs that are used to treat the infection. The new federal guidelines for health care providers recommend that PrEP be considered for people who are HIV-negative and at substantial risk for HIV infection. The pill must be taken every day by people who are exposed to HIV to be most effective in order to stop the virus from establishing a permanent infection.