Guide to Long Acting HIV Prevention Injection Strategies

Long acting HIV prevention injections are part of pre exposure prophylaxis, commonly called PrEP. PrEP is intended for people who do not have HIV and may have an increased chance of exposure. Instead of taking prevention medicine every day, certain injectable options are administered at healthcare visits according to a specific schedule.

One established injectable PrEP option uses cabotegravir, an antiretroviral medicine designed to remain in the body for an extended period. The injection schedule involves an initial phase followed by regularly scheduled injections. Healthcare professionals determine the appropriate schedule and assess HIV status before and during prevention.

Key points to understand include:

• Injectable PrEP is intended to prevent HIV before potential exposure.
• It is administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
• HIV testing is important before starting and while continuing PrEP.
• Following the recommended injection schedule is essential for maintaining protection.
• Injectable PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections.
• Condoms can provide additional protection against HIV and other infections.

The suitability of injectable PrEP can differ between individuals. Healthcare professionals may consider exposure patterns, medical history, other medicines, testing results, and the person's ability to attend scheduled appointments.

Explore Important Considerations for Prevention Planning

Long acting prevention strategies can make HIV prevention more convenient for some people, but they require consistent healthcare follow-up. Missing scheduled injections can affect protection and may require professional guidance about the next steps. People who discontinue injectable PrEP may also need to discuss alternative prevention options with a healthcare professional.

Important considerations include:

• Regular appointments: Injection schedules should be followed as recommended.
• HIV testing: Testing helps confirm HIV-negative status and supports safe continuation of PrEP.
• Follow-up care: Healthcare visits can monitor ongoing prevention needs and possible side effects.
• Injection-site reactions: Temporary pain, tenderness, swelling, or other reactions can occur.
• Prevention choices: Oral PrEP and other prevention measures may be considered when appropriate.
• Additional protection: Barrier methods can help reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted infections.

Long acting HIV prevention injections represent one part of a broader prevention approach. Combining appropriate medical guidance, HIV testing, safer-sex practices, and awareness of individual risk factors can support effective prevention planning. Anyone considering injectable PrEP should discuss the option with a qualified healthcare professional to understand whether it is appropriate and how the recommended schedule applies to them.