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Long-Lasting HIV Prevention Without the Pills

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is one of the most effective strategies to avoid HIV infection. When used as prescribed, PrEP drugs can reduce the risk of contracting HIV via sexual contact by up to 99%.

Apretude (cabotegravir), is the first and only long-acting injectable version of PrEP. Apretude is administered as few as six times per year, and is designed to slowly release the medicine over time between each scheduled appointment to continuously help prevent contracting HIV through sex.

Apretude was authorized by the FDA at the end of 2021 and in clinical studies it was found to be superior than daily prep pills.

Clinical Studies

In a study involving 4,566 HIV-1 negative cisgender men and transgender women at risk of contracting HIV, 12 out of 2,278 people who took APRETUDE tested positive for HIV while 39 out of 2,281 people who took Truvada tested positive. The results showed that more participants remained HIV-negative while taking APRETUDE compared to Truvada.

In another study involving 3,224 HIV-1 negative cisgender women at risk of contracting HIV, 3 out of 1,613 people who took APRETUDE tested positive for HIV, while 36 out of 1,610 people who took Truvada tested positive.

Again, the results showed that significantly more women remained HIV-negative while taking APRETUDE than Truvada.

Women on Apretude

You may be wondering, “Does HIV affect women?”

*According to a 2018 study.  According to a 2019 study.  According to studies conducted between 2006 and 2017.

The answer is yes.

Women represent about 1 in 5 new HIV diagnoses each year.* 

Over half of women diagnosed with HIV are Black.

18% of women diagnosed with HIV are Hispanic/Latina.

It is presumed that HIV only impacts gay men. However, recent statistics have shown that is no longer the case.

Many people can benefit from PrEP, including cisgender women and transgender women.

Women represent about 1 in 5 new HIV diagnoses each year, according to a 2018 study. 55% of women diagnosed with HIV are Black and 18% are Hispanic/Latina, according to a 2019 study. 

1 in 7 transgender women are living with HIV.

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Apretude is the first-ever long-acting injectable medication to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV. Apretude does not require daily dosing like current oral medications, and the treatment begins with two initial injections one month apart, followed by scheduled injections every two months. 

Apretude does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, and it's essential to use condoms for added protection. 

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HIV can affect anyone regardless of sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender, age, or their socioeconomic background. If you have condomless sex with someone who is living with HIV or has an unknown status, if you have multiple partners, or if you have sex within a community where HIV is more common, Apretude may be an appropriate option for you.

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In clinical trials, Apretude reduces the risk of HIV by around 99% if used consistently and correctly.

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If you're prescribed Apretude, you will get tested regularly prior to each injection. Your healthcare provider may do additional screening tests.

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Apretude is a medication designed to reduce the risk of contracting HIV-1, but it can only be used by individuals who are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative.

To be eligible for the medication individuals must be considered at-risk for HIV, be adults or adolescents, and weigh at least 77 pounds (35 kilograms). 

It is essential to consult with a medical professional to determine if Apretude is an appropriate option for you.

Before taking Apretude you must inform your provider if you:

  • Have ever had a skin rash or an allergic reaction to medicines that contain cabotegravir.

  • Have or have had liver problems.

  • Have ever had mental health problems.

  • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if APRETUDE will harm your unborn baby. APRETUDE can remain in your body for up to 12 months or longer after the last injection. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while receiving APRETUDE.

F.A.Q.

PrEP/PEP Services Available at MiDoctor Health

At MiDoctor Health, all people—regardless of race, religion, gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation—can get sexual health care in a safe and supportive environment.

If you are HIV-negative and think you may be at risk for HIV, speaking with one of our specialists can help you determine if Apretude is the right option for you. Our specialists can answer any questions or concerns and provide professional recommendations. 

Quality Care. Without the wait