What is PrEP?

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PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis and is a prescription medication taken daily to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV. If taken consistently, it can reduce the risk from unprotected sex by up to 99%. It is generally well tolerated. Some people may experience headache, or stomach upset but it is usually mild and goes away. If you have unprotected sex and don't always know your partner's status, PrEP may be right for you.

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"On-Demand" PrEP is taking the medication only during a risk exposure. Two tablets are taken 2-24 hours just before sex and then 1 tablet daily for two days. The pharmacy recommends standard daily PrEP but On-Demand may be an option for some and there is evidence this provides some protection.

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Set up free regular text reminders for your medication at https://thesexyouwant.ca/reminder/

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What is PrEP? video unitl 0:50 applies to Ontarians

What is PEP?

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PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis and is a prescription medication regimen taken following a high risk exposure to HIV (eg. condom breaks, sexual assault, unknown partner status). It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible as PEP needs to be taken within 72 hours of exposure - the sooner the better. We always have PEP in-stock.

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Is It Free?

PrEP and PEP are covered by the Ontario Drug Benefit Program. If you are 24 and under without private insurance and have an Ontario health card they are free. The medications are also covered for seniors 65+, those on disability, or Ontario Works.

If you have private insurance your plan may cover them as well. Contact The PrEP Clinic at 416-420-1250 or www.prepclinic.ca for assistance. We are now referring all patients to Ontario's only province-wide PrEP service.

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How Do I Get It?

We are now referring all patients to The PrEP Clinic. This is an amazing online clinic that provides the EASIEST access to PrEP for people all over Ontario. All you need to do is download their free app "The PrEP Clinic" and have a video appointment through the app to get started. Lab work is then ordered to be completed at any lab in your in area in the province. They even help to better afford the medication and provide free shipping to your door. You can also visit their awesome website at

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If your doctor is not familiar with prescribing PrEP please provide them with our PrEP: Info for Prescribers document. We are also always available to answer any questions they might have. Canadian guidelines on prescribing PrEP and PEP are also available. For those requiring PEP it is recommended to go to their nearest emergency room for fast access.

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PrEP does not protect against other STIs such as syphilis or HPV. It is always best to also consider using condoms in conjunction and knowing your partner's status. It is highly recommended to be vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B (if you have not already), as well as the HPV vaccine. 

PrEP Info for Prescribers

Canadian PrEP & PeP Guidelines