If you are sexually active and want to protect yourself from HIV, PrEP in Fort Myers FL may be one of the most important health decisions you can make. PrEP — short for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis — is a prescription medication that significantly reduces the risk of getting HIV when taken as directed. Florida consistently ranks among the states with the highest rates of new HIV diagnoses. However, the good news is that PrEP has transformed what prevention looks like for thousands of Floridians.
At Florida Infectious Disease Care, our board-certified infectious disease specialists help patients across Southwest Florida understand, access, and maintain PrEP with complete confidence and without judgment.
What Is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a daily oral medication — or in some cases a long-acting injectable — taken by HIV-negative individuals to prevent acquiring HIV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken consistently. When injected drugs are involved, that risk reduction reaches approximately 74%.
The medication works by maintaining a high enough concentration of antiretroviral drugs in the bloodstream so that if HIV enters the body, it cannot establish a permanent infection. Therefore, consistency is critical — PrEP only works when you take it exactly as prescribed.
How Does PrEP Work?
PrEP works by blocking the pathways HIV uses to replicate inside the body. The active ingredients — typically tenofovir and emtricitabine — build up in the body’s cells over time, creating a protective barrier at the cellular level.
For maximum effectiveness, daily oral PrEP requires about 7 days of consistent use before it reaches full protective levels in rectal tissue, and approximately 21 days for vaginal tissue. As a result, starting PrEP before you are in a situation of potential exposure — not after — is essential for it to do its job.
Who Should Take PrEP in Fort Myers FL?
PrEP is recommended for HIV-negative adults who face a higher risk of HIV exposure. You may be a strong candidate if you:
- Have a sexual partner who is HIV-positive or whose status is unknown
- Do not consistently use condoms during sex
- Have been diagnosed with an STI in the past 6 months
- Inject drugs and share needles or equipment
- Have multiple sexual partners
- Are a man who has sex with men (MSM)
- Are a transgender woman who has sex with men
Importantly, PrEP is not only for one group of people. Anyone who faces a meaningful risk of HIV exposure — regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation — deserves to know about this option.
Our specialists at Florida Infectious Disease Care offer a dedicated PrEP HIV prevention program designed to fit your lifestyle and health history. We welcome all patients and provide non-judgmental, patient-centered care.
Types of PrEP Available
Daily Oral PrEP (Truvada / Descovy)
The most widely used form of PrEP is a once-daily pill. Two FDA-approved options exist: Truvada (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine) and Descovy (tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine). Both are highly effective; however, Descovy is generally preferred for patients with kidney concerns, while Truvada is approved for a broader population.
Long-Acting Injectable PrEP (Apretude)
Apretude (cabotegravir) is an injectable form of PrEP given every two months after two initial monthly shots. It is an excellent option for patients who struggle with daily pill adherence. Your doctor will help determine which form of PrEP best suits your individual health needs.
How to Start PrEP in Fort Myers
Starting PrEP is a straightforward process when you work with an infectious disease specialist. Here is what to expect:
- Step 1: Schedule a consultation at Florida Infectious Disease Care
- Step 2: Complete an HIV test (you must test HIV-negative before starting PrEP)
- Step 3: Undergo kidney function tests and STI screening
- Step 4: Receive your PrEP prescription and guidance on adherence
- Step 5: Return for follow-up visits every 3 months for ongoing testing and refills
What Are the Side Effects of PrEP?
Most people tolerate PrEP very well. The most common side effects in the early weeks include nausea, headache, and fatigue — most of which resolve within the first month. Additionally, some patients experience mild changes in kidney function, which is why regular monitoring is an essential part of your PrEP care.
Serious side effects are rare. Your provider at Florida Infectious Disease Care will review your complete medical history before prescribing PrEP to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.
PrEP Cost and Insurance in Florida
Many insurance plans — including Medicaid and most private insurers — cover PrEP with little or no out-of-pocket cost. Additionally, Gilead Sciences offers a medication assistance program for uninsured or underinsured patients. Our team will help you navigate coverage options so that cost is never a barrier to your protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How quickly does PrEP start working?
PrEP reaches full effectiveness in rectal tissue after about 7 days of daily use, and in vaginal tissue after approximately 21 days. It is important to take PrEP consistently every day to maintain full protection.
Q: Do I need a prescription to get PrEP in Fort Myers?
Yes. PrEP requires a prescription from a licensed medical provider. At Florida Infectious Disease Care, our board-certified specialists can evaluate your eligibility and prescribe PrEP during your first consultation visit.
Q: Can I stop taking PrEP whenever I want?
You can stop taking PrEP, but you should speak with your doctor first. Protection decreases after stopping. Additionally, if you were potentially exposed to HIV after your last dose, your provider may recommend PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) as a follow-up precaution.
Q: Is PrEP the same as a cure or treatment for HIV?
No. PrEP is a prevention medication for people who are HIV-negative. It does not treat HIV infection. If you have been diagnosed with HIV, your doctor will discuss appropriate treatment options with you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Taking charge of your health starts with a single conversation. At Florida Infectious Disease Care, our board-certified specialists in Fort Myers, FL are here to guide you with compassion, expertise, and complete confidentiality. Call us today at 239-245-8223 or visit us at 14192 Metropolis Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33912.
Schedule your appointment online at floridaidcare.com/make-an-appointment or find us on Google Maps. You deserve expert care — and we are ready when you are.