Despite this remarkable effectiveness, regular HIV testing remains an essential part of PrEP care.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has transformed HIV prevention and is now one of the most effective strategies available for reducing the risk of HIV acquisition.
When taken correctly, PrEP reduces the risk of acquiring HIV through sexual contact by well over 99%.
Despite this remarkable effectiveness, regular HIV testing remains an essential part of PrEP care.
A common misconception is that HIV testing becomes unnecessary once PrEP has been started.
In reality, routine HIV testing forms a fundamental component of safe PrEP prescribing.
The primary reasons for ongoing testing are:
Regular testing also provides an opportunity to review sexual health more broadly, including screening for other sexually transmitted infections and discussing any changes in risk profile.
Most individuals taking PrEP should undergo regular HIV testing as part of routine follow-up.
For many patients this coincides with quarterly PrEP reviews.
The exact testing schedule may vary depending on:
Routine follow-up is considered an important aspect of responsible PrEP prescribing.
For most patients, routine monitoring is performed using a laboratory fourth-generation HIV test (HIV 1 & 2 Abs/p24 Ag).
This remains the cornerstone of HIV testing for individuals taking PrEP.
In selected situations, additional HIV RNA testing may occasionally be considered, particularly if:
The vast majority of patients taking PrEP will never require HIV RNA testing.
This is one of the most common questions we encounter.
In theory, antiretroviral medication has the potential to influence the behaviour of HIV infection if infection occurs whilst medication is being taken.
For this reason, HIV testing should always be interpreted within the context of:
Fortunately, modern testing strategies are well established and clinicians experienced in PrEP prescribing are familiar with these considerations.
When taken correctly, PrEP is extraordinarily effective.
Documented cases of HIV acquisition in individuals with good adherence are exceptionally rare.
The overwhelming majority of infections occurring in people prescribed PrEP are associated with:
This is one of the reasons baseline testing before commencing PrEP remains so important.
Many patients become understandably anxious if they develop symptoms whilst taking PrEP.
Common concerns include:
In reality, these symptoms are far more likely to be caused by common viral illnesses than HIV infection.
Symptoms alone are rarely useful in determining HIV status.
Appropriate testing remains the most reliable way to assess whether HIV infection is present.
Effective PrEP care extends beyond simply providing medication.
A comprehensive PrEP programme should include:
Regular follow-up helps ensure that PrEP continues to be used safely and effectively.
At The Wright Practice, we provide comprehensive PrEP care including assessment before starting treatment, ongoing monitoring and regular HIV testing.
We aim to ensure that patients understand not only how to take PrEP correctly, but also how HIV testing fits into a wider strategy of sexual health prevention.
Wow! Dr. Dan was extremely knowledgeable and attentive to my health and well being. I’m so glad to have found him!
I have been going to Dr Wright for a number of years now. He is highly knowledgeable, compassionate, open minded and efficient, I couldn’t recommend him highly enough
I have been a patient of Doctor Dan for some time and continue to consult with him despite having left the UK. Dan has the enthusiasm and energy of a young man, whilst taking the holistic “physician” approach of an old school family doctor, equipped with the most modern insights and technology.
Dr Jain was great. Expert knowledge with practical advice
Schedule a consultation | Call: +44 (0)207 139 1833 | Email: info@thewrightpractice.com
101 Harley Street, London, W1G 6AH
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