Q: I'm HIV negative, but my boyfriend is positive. We're fully committed to each other, but navigating our sex life is a constant challenge. But I just read somewhere that there's medication that not only treats HIV, but can help greatly reduce risk of HIV infection for negative people. Am I a candidate for this medication and how do I get it? Thanks.
A: You are correct! Some recent studies have been published showing promising results with regards to antiretroviral medication helping to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. Truvada, a medication currently on the market indicated for the treatment of HIV, has demonstrated efficacy in its use in pre-exposure.
This is encouraging news for individuals such yourself that are in a "mixed" HIV status relationship. I have talked to several patients who share your concerns, and I especially hear this from HIV positive patients, who are very concerned about the possibility of passing the virus on to someone they have fallen in love with and are committed to spending their lives with.
So based on the results of the iPrEx Trial (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Initiative) -- which you can read about in detail here -- there is reason to be encouraged. But that said, there is also reason for pause. I haven’t yet filled any prescriptions for this purpose and Truvada isn’t yet FDA indicated for this purpose. However, clearly you would be an ideal candidate for pre-exposure therapy, being you are in a relationship with an HIV-positive person. Ultimately, this decision is up to the patient and the prescriber. I urge you to contact your medical provider and discuss your options regarding this preventive treatment. Good luck. -- Heath P. Dobson Jr., BS Pharm, RPh
As an openly gay man working in HIV prevention it is great to read clear information from providers who note the pros and cons of PrEP use. I would like to remind all who are navigating risk while enjoying active sex lives to remember that condoms work. Using a condom can be a caring act despite any inconvenience.
Posted by: S. Wakefield | 09/20/2011 at 09:56 AM
As a gay man who is HIV-positive, and married (before Prop 8!) in a 9-year relationship with an HIV-negative man, I question the need for PrEP. My husband and I have had an active sex life for over 9 years, and he's still HIV-negative, and all of this is without his taking medication. I have taken medication, and have been undetectable the whole time. That, and practicing various "sexual harm reduction" techniques, have been effective for us. I had kidney damage from taking Truvada, so I'm not sure I recommend it for everyone. You have to be aware of those risks, and get regular blood monitoring. But I'm here to tell you that serodiscordant relationships CAN work, and you don't necessarily need a medication to do it.
Posted by: Ken Howard, LCSW | 09/20/2011 at 12:46 PM
great comments, thanks for that reminder, Ken! inspiring and of course a 'mixed' relationship can work, happy for you!
Posted by: Will | 09/21/2011 at 08:43 AM
I know it sounds crazy but look at Craig'ss list, that's how i meet the love of my life. You don't need to look for love there, maybe just ask if annoye knows any local hangouts where you could meet someone new. It's worth a try. Good luck!
Posted by: Max | 07/05/2012 at 07:46 AM