Last updated: November 6, 2026. Reviewed against CDC clinical guidance for PrEP.
Resumen en español: PrEP es un medicamento recetado que reduce el riesgo de contraer VIH en personas que son VIH-negativas y tienen riesgo por relaciones sexuales o uso de drogas inyectables. Una visita incluye pruebas de VIH e ITS, un análisis de función renal y una conversación con un proveedor sobre si PrEP es adecuado para ti. Usa el buscador de clínicas de RapidTesting Miami para encontrar una clínica cercana.
What PrEP is
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a prescription medication that lowers the risk of getting HIV for people who are HIV-negative and at risk through sex or injection drug use. It is prevention, not treatment, and it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections. Condoms and regular STI testing still matter.
There are two kinds: a daily pill, and a long-acting injection given every two months by a clinician. Which one, if any, is right for you is a decision you make with a provider after an assessment. No clinic should tell you which medication you "need" before a clinician has evaluated you.
Who PrEP is for
The CDC recommends that providers discuss PrEP with sexually active adults and adolescents, and recommends it for people with a recent risk factor, such as:
- A sexual partner who is living with HIV, especially if their viral load is not known to be suppressed
- A bacterial STI (syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia) in the past six months
- Inconsistent condom use with partners whose HIV status you don't know
- Sharing injection equipment
If none of these apply to you, a provider may reasonably conclude PrEP is not indicated right now. That is a normal outcome of a PrEP visit. If a clinic prescribes PrEP without asking about your history, or tells you to take it because "you never know," that is a reason to find a different clinic.
What a PrEP visit involves
- HIV test. You must be confirmed HIV-negative immediately before starting. Starting PrEP with an undiagnosed HIV infection can lead to drug-resistant HIV, which is harder to treat. A lab-based test is preferred; a rapid test may be used with lab confirmation.
- STI testing. Syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia at the sites where you have sex.
- Kidney function and hepatitis B. Oral PrEP requires a kidney check at the start and periodically after. Hepatitis B status changes how the medication is managed.
- A conversation. Your history, your risk factors, side effects, how to take it, and which option fits. For people assigned female at birth who could get HIV through receptive vaginal sex, not every oral PrEP product is approved; the provider will choose an agent that is indicated for you.
Many clinics do the conversation by telehealth and the labs at the office.
Staying on PrEP safely
Ongoing PrEP requires an HIV test every three months for your safety, plus periodic STI testing and kidney checks. Those tests are a medical requirement of the medication, not a program rule. If you stop taking PrEP, tell your provider so prescriptions and reminders stop; you can restart later after a new HIV test.
Cost
Cost depends on your coverage and the clinic. Ask the clinic directly what a visit and labs will cost in your situation, and whether public-health-funded testing or sliding-fee options apply to you. If you have questions about what your health plan covers, read how preventive-care coverage works in Florida or call the number on your insurance card. Manufacturer and state assistance programs exist for people who qualify; the clinic can point you to them.
Your pharmacy is your choice
You may fill a PrEP prescription at any pharmacy you choose. A clinic may tell you about pharmacies that offer delivery or lower prices, but using any particular pharmacy is optional and does not affect your care, your insurance, or any assistance you receive.
Finding a clinic in Miami-Dade and Broward
Use the RapidTesting Miami clinic finder to see clinics near your ZIP code that offer HIV and STI testing and PrEP evaluation. Listing on RapidTesting Miami is free for clinics. RapidTesting Miami receives no payment from any clinic, pharmacy, insurer, or patient, and you may use any clinic or pharmacy you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Does PrEP prevent other STIs?
No. PrEP lowers the risk of HIV only. Regular STI testing and condoms are still recommended.
Can I start PrEP the same day as my test?
Sometimes, if the provider has what they need to confirm you are HIV-negative and assess your kidney function and risk. Many clinics prefer to wait for lab confirmation.
Do I have to take PrEP forever?
No. PrEP is used during periods of risk. Talk to your provider before stopping or restarting.
Can a clinic require me to take PrEP to get another service or benefit?
No. Any medication should be prescribed only because a clinician has determined it is appropriate for you. If you are told that a benefit depends on taking a medication, you can decline and report it to the Florida Department of Health.
Sources: CDC, PrEP for HIV Prevention — clinical guidance; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, HIV prevention recommendation. This article is health information, not medical advice. Talk to a provider about your situation.
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