Straight answers to the questions people ask most about HIV PrEP in Bangkok. Can't find yours? Ask us on LINE.
These are the questions we hear most often. Each answer is short; the links take you to a full guide when you want more detail.
01FAQ
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PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine taken by HIV-negative people to prevent HIV. The most common form is a single tablet containing tenofovir and emtricitabine, taken every day or, for some people, “on demand” around sex (2-1-1).
Taken as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%, and from injecting drugs by at least 74% (US CDC). Most PrEP failures happen when doses are missed, so a routine that fits your life matters.
With daily PrEP, the CDC says protection is highest after about 7 days for receptive anal sex and about 21 days for receptive vaginal sex and injecting drug use. With on-demand 2-1-1, the double dose must be taken 2–24 hours before sex. Your doctor will confirm what applies to you.
Usually, yes. You need a negative HIV test first, which takes about 20 minutes. Kidney and hepatitis B tests are done at the same visit. If you may have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, you need PEP first, not PrEP.
Before starting: an HIV test, a kidney function test and a hepatitis B test, plus STI screening where it makes sense. While on PrEP, you have an HIV test and check-up about every 3 months, and a kidney test from time to time.
Most people have none. Some get mild nausea, headache or an upset stomach in the first weeks, which usually settles within a month. Kidney function is monitored because tenofovir can affect it in a small number of people.
No. PrEP only prevents HIV. Condoms help protect against other STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia, and the 3-monthly check-ups on PrEP catch STIs early.
Yes. Travellers and expats are welcome, and our doctors speak English. Tell us how long you are staying and we will talk you through the supply you need and a plan for continuing PrEP at home.
Yes. You can register with a first name or nickname, and your results are never shared with employers, embassies or insurers.
Same-day, confidential visits with English-speaking doctors in central Bangkok.