Can I stop injectable PrEP at any time?

Yes, the decision to stop is yours, but a safe discontinuation must ALWAYS be planned with your healthcare team.

Unlike with pills, you cannot simply stop getting injections. It is crucial to plan the process to avoid significant risks.

Why is a planned discontinuation essential?

The injectable PrEP medication remains in your body for several months after the last injection (the pharmacological "tail"). During this period, the medication level is too low to effectively protect you, but high enough that, if an infection were to occur, HIV could develop drug resistance. This is the risk we absolutely want to avoid.

The safety strategy: transitioning to oral PrEP

To eliminate this risk, the standard recommendation is to switch to PrEP in pill form (oral PrEP) to cover the "tail" period. This transition ensures your HIV protection remains at 100% while the injectable medication leaves your body.

What if my risk of HIV exposure disappears completely?

If your situation changes and you are no longer at risk (e.g., a stable, monogamous relationship with an HIV-negative trustworthy partner, abstinence), discussing the discontinuation of PrEP is entirely relevant.

Even in this case, it is essential to plan this with a healthcare professional like our pharmacists. We will evaluate your situation together. A transition to oral PrEP might still be recommended for maximum safety, or another follow-up strategy could be considered. The important thing is that the decision is made in an informed and safe manner.

Your action plan for a safe discontinuation

1. Discuss your plan to stop with us well before your next scheduled injection.
2. Plan the transition or follow-up strategy with our team.
3. Ensure your protection for the full recommended duration to guarantee your safety.