PrEP, PEP & DoxyPEP Services
Truesdale Medical Center provides comprehensive HIV and STI prevention services — including PrEP, PEP, and DoxyPEP. Whether you’re looking to start HIV prevention medication, need emergency post-exposure treatment, or want to reduce your STI risk after sex, our team is here for you with compassionate, judgment-free care.
What is DoxyPEP?
DoxyPEP has proven effective against bacterial STDs when taken 24 hours after unprotected sex. Research has shown that this can reduce the possibility of contracting chlamydia by 88%, syphilis by 87%, and gonorrhea by 55%.
The recommended treatment population for DoxyPEP includes gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM), as well as transgender women (TGW). Specifically, DoxyPEP is primarily advised for individuals who have engaged in condomless sex with one or more partners and have had a sexually transmitted infection in the past year.
Similar to the morning-after pill, DoxyPEP works best immediately after exposure, with the best results being 24 to 72 hours after condomless sex. Upon being prescribed DoxyPEP, patients should follow up with their healthcare provider every three months after exposure to get regular tests conducted. Not only is this to catch potential dormant sexually transmitted diseases, but it is also meant to catch potential reinfections promptly.
Be PrEPpared
Truesdale Medical Center is happy to provide PrEP for HIV prevention. Free services and low-cost medication may be offered through our partner, Palmetto Community Care. To learn more about this program and if it’s right for you, please visit our partner website palmettocare.org
One pill can change your life and keep you HIV-negative!
PrEP is a medication (Oral PrEP, Dapivirine Ring, or Long-acting Injectable) that is up to 99 percent effective in reducing HIV rates for those who take the medication as prescribed. Palmetto Community Care aims to make this program medication free or low-cost for participants.
Who qualifies for the PrEP program?
- Those aged 18 years or older
- Living in Charleston, Berkeley or Dorchester counties
- High risk of contracting HIV
What is PEP?
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an emergency HIV prevention treatment for people who may have been recently exposed to HIV. When started within 72 hours of a potential exposure and taken as directed for 28 days, PEP is highly effective at preventing HIV infection.
Who should consider PEP?
PEP may be right for you if:
- You had condomless sex with someone who is HIV-positive or whose status is unknown
- You shared needles or injection equipment
- You experienced sexual assault
- You are not currently on PrEP
Time is critical
PEP must be started within 72 hours of a potential exposure — the sooner the better. If you think you may need PEP, call us immediately at 843-266-3870. If it’s after hours, go to your nearest emergency room and ask about PEP.
PEP vs. PrEP — what’s the difference?
PrEP is taken daily before potential exposure to prevent HIV long-term. PEP is emergency treatment taken after a potential exposure. If you find yourself needing PEP more than once, PrEP may be a better long-term solution — and we can help you make that transition.
Care for your truest self
Our team is ready to discuss our prevention programs to determine which one is the right fit for you.