By: Tito Orlando Ortiz, MPHE
Think of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as a shield that will protect you up to 99% against the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), according to several studies.
PrEP is a medication prescribed to people who do not have HIV but are at high risk of contracting it, either through sexual intercourse or by sharing injection drugs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
"Anyone who understands that they may be exposed to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and wants to prevent it is a candidate for PrEP," said Dr. Wigberto González Martínez, a physician specializing in PrEP.
Before learning how PrEP works in the body, it is important to understand that HIV is a virus that is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, breast milk, and rectal secretions, according to the CDC.
CD4 cells, or white blood cells, are responsible for fighting any infection or virus that enters the human body; they are the immune defense mechanism. When HIV enters the body, it seeks out CD4 cells to attach to and make new copies of itself. The new copies of the virus will repeat this pattern unless the person undergoes antiretroviral treatment to stop this process.
When a person takes PrEP daily, it creates a barrier that protects CD4 cells and prevents the virus from making copies of itself.
PrEP is a drug from the nucleoside analog family. It works like the nitrogenous bases that make up DNA. For it to be effective, the virus has to try to replicate, and when it encounters the drug, the infection cycle is inhibited," said the specialist.
The doctor assured that "people who want to start PrEP are offered counseling and are scheduled for their initial appointment to begin as soon as possible. Those who have started report that PrEP is very well tolerated, easy to take, and has few or no side effects. They feel safer when having sex."
Si usted desea recibir una orientación sobre PrEP en Centro Ararat, puede llamar a la Clínica de Salud Sexual al 787-497-0800, extensiones 131 y 132.
The content on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace or substitute for a consultation with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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