HIV-PrEP and HIV-PEP
HIV-PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) provides preventive protection against HIV, while HIV-PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) prevents infection after possible contact. Both are key tools in HIV prevention and are crucial for containing the spread of the virus.
HIV-PrEP: Pre-exposure prophylaxis - your protection against HIV
HIV-PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a highly effective measure to prevent HIV infection. While condoms continue to offer the best protection against sexually transmitted diseases, there are situations in which they are not used. In such cases, it is an effective alternative that reduces the risk of HIV transmission by up to 86 %.
What is HIV-PrEP?
Pre-exposure prophylaxis is a specially developed HIV medication that is taken preventively to prevent infection - especially during unprotected sexual intercourse. It can either be taken daily as a tablet or as required according to a set schedule. HIV-PrEP is particularly suitable for high-risk groups in order to significantly reduce the likelihood of infection.
Our offer in the Johann Strauss Pharmacy
At the Johann Strauss Pharmacy you can obtain the HIV-PrEP at an affordable price of € 47.90 per pack (either in a can or in a blister pack). Prescriptions are issued exclusively by specialised doctors and treatment centres. Regular HIV tests and medical check-ups are mandatory for use to ensure safety and efficacy.
Do you have any questions about our range or would you like to find out more? We will be happy to advise you! Contact us here.
Assumption of costs for HIV-PrEP
Since 1 April, health insurance companies have been covering the costs of HIV-PrEP. Insured persons (with the exception of those insured by the independent doctors' insurance funds) receive a reimbursement of up to 60 euros per month for the medication and 25 Euro per quarter for the doctor's interview.
How are the costs covered?
Costs are reimbursed in the same way as for elective doctor invoices via the websites MySV.at, oegk.at, svs.at and bvaeb.at. Both the invoice and the prescription must be submitted with the application. If submitted by post, a copy of the e-card must also be enclosed. In the case of digital submission, the SV number is already stored.
Which invoices can be submitted?
Invoices for 3 monthly packs as well as 3 individual monthly invoices can be submitted. The prerequisite is that both the prescription and the invoices have an issue date after 1 April 2024.
Daily intake for anal intercourse
Intake schedule for daily HIV PrEP for anal intercourse (with involvement of the penile and intestinal mucosa)
In the case of long-term medication, one tablet is taken daily. This form of HIV-PrEP is recommended in the German-Austrian guidelines. To ensure that sufficient active substance is present in the mucous membranes and tissues involved in sex, the following recommendations apply to the duration of intake before the first unprotected contact:
The HIV-PrEP active substances accumulate particularly well in the Anal and intestinal mucosa to. Two days sufficient protection is built up after the start of daily intake.
For the Penile mucosa exact concentrations are not known, but experience shows that even after two days There is a corresponding protection against HIV. The concentration of the active ingredient in the neighbouring lymph nodes may be decisive for protection, as HIV could multiply there if it enters the body via the penile mucosa.
Daily intake for vaginal intercourse
Intake regimen for receptive vaginal intercourse (with involvement of the vaginal and penile mucosa)
In the Vaginal mucosa the active ingredients of HIV-PrEP do not accumulate as well and are broken down more quickly. It therefore takes longer for a protective level of the active ingredient to be reached. It is assumed that seven days sufficient protection is built up after the start of daily intake.
Occasion-related intake
Intake scheme for event-related HIV-PrEP - Recommended only for anal intercourse
Studies have shown that event-related HIV-PrEP in the Anal intercourse (involving the penile and intestinal mucosa) also provides reliable protection. This form of administration is suitable if PrEP is only used temporarily, for example around a sex party.
Ideally, the intake should begin 24 to 2 hours at the latest before sex with two tablets at once, to build up fast and sufficient protection. However, taking it just two hours before sex is considered very short.
After the first dose, PrEP is administered with a daily tablet continued and should two days after the last sex continue to be taken.
Discontinuation of HIV-PrEP
Important notes
After the last sexual contact, HIV-PrEP must continue to be taken daily in order to minimise the risk of HIV infection. Although no firm data is available, there are general recommendations:
- Anal intercourseAfter the last anal intercourse (involving the penile and anal/intestinal mucosa), a daily intake of two days recommended.
- Other sexual practicesIf practices other than anal intercourse have also taken place, the daily intake for seven days be continued after the last contact.
You should always consult your doctor for customised adjustments and if you have any questions. Doctors can also recommend customised tapering phases that meet your personal needs.
HIV PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)
HIV PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a medical measure that is taken after possible exposure to HIV to prevent infection. HIV PEP is particularly recommended in the following situations:
- High risk of infection with HIV
- For example, in the event of a condom tear, unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse, partners with unknown HIV status or needlestick injuries
Those affected should within 1-2 hours, at the latest 48 hours After exposure, go to hospital and start HIV PEP treatment. The treatment lasts 4 weeks and is monitored by regular blood tests 14 and 30 days monitored to ensure effectiveness and safety. Specialised contact persons in Vienna are
More info
On the website of Aids Hilfe Wien you will find further information on this topic. Here you will find a List of doctors and centres.
Questions & answers about PrEP and PEP
What is PrEP?
How does PrEP work?
What is PEP?
What are the side effects of PrEP and PEP?
PrEP:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Abdominal pain or stomach problems
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Weight changes
- Occasionally, kidney problems may also occur, so regular examinations are important to monitor kidney function.
PEP:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash
- Prolonged use may also cause liver problems, so regular medical checks are also necessary.
It is important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and many people tolerate PrEP and PEP well. Careful medical monitoring while taking these medications can help to recognise and treat potential side effects at an early stage.
Where can I get PrEP and PEP?
- HIV specialist clinics and centresThese facilities offer specialised counselling and treatment for HIV prevention and treatment.
- Medical practicesGeneral practitioners, infectiologists or specialised HIV doctors can prescribe and monitor PrEP and PEP.
- Clinics and health centresPublic or private healthcare facilities can prescribe PrEP and PEP, often in conjunction with HIV testing and counselling.
- PharmaciesPrEP and PEP are available by prescription in all pharmacies in Austria.
It is important that PrEP and PEP are taken under medical supervision, as they are specifically tailored to the individual's risk profile and health. Choosing the right facility depends on local health services, personal needs and the legal requirements of the country in question.
How can PrEP be taken?
Taking PrEP “on demand” or also known as the “2-1-1 regimen” involves taking an initial dose 2 hours before the potential exposure, followed by another dose 24 hours later and a final dose 48 hours after the first dose. This method is particularly suitable for occasional risk situations and can be an effective alternative to daily dosing if used correctly and under medical guidance.
What does PrEP cost?
Cost coverage of PrEP for insured persons (except those insured by KFAs) with up to 60 euros/month for the medication and 25 euros/quarter for the doctor's consultation. Reimbursement is made in the same way as for elective doctors' invoices via the website MySV.at, oegk.at, svs.at and bvaeb.at.
Both the invoice and the prescription must be submitted. If you submit by post, a copy of the e-card must be enclosed with the letter. The SV no. is already stored digitally.
You can submit either one invoice with 3 monthly packs on it or 3 individual monthly invoices. Important: Prescriptions or invoices must have an issue date after 1 April 2024.
Which is safer - a condom or PrEP?
- CondomsCondoms are a physical barrier that prevent direct contact between bodily fluids (such as semen, vaginal secretions and blood) and the mucous membranes of the penis, vagina, anus or mouth. When used correctly, condoms provide very effective protection against HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- PrEPPrEP involves the daily intake of HIV medication by HIV-negative people who are at high risk of becoming infected with HIV. If PrEP is taken consistently, it can reduce the risk of HIV infection by more than 90%. PrEP provides an extra layer of protection regardless of whether a condom is used or not. However, PrEP does not provide protection against STIs.
Security in comparison:
- CondomsProvide immediate protection against HIV and other STIs when used correctly.
- PrEPProvides long-term protection, but requires daily adherence and regular medical supervision. However, PrEP does not offer protection against STIs.
Safety depends on correct use and individual risk behaviour. The combination of both methods (condom and PrEP) can further improve protection. It is important to talk to a doctor to discuss the best strategy for individual protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
