What to know about Descovy®:

Descovy®is a newly approved medication for PrEP. However, Descovy® has not yet been approved for PrEP for insertive vaginal sex. Descovy® is approved for all other forms of sex. Descovy® is a pill that combines two HIV medications- Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Alafenamide (F/TAF).

Before taking Descovy® as PrEP, you will need to be tested for HIV, as PrEP should only be taken by individuals who are HIV-negative.

Most people taking Descovy® do not experience any side effects. However, some possible effects are:

• nausea
• diarrhea
• headache
• fatigue
• stomach pain

Although unlikely, more serious side effects include new or worsening kidney problems, lactic acidosis, and severe liver problems.

Doctor visits will be scheduled about every 3 months to monitor for side effects, assess kidney health, and to test for HIV. If side effects such as nausea or headaches do occur, they should go away within a few days to a few weeks. A doctor may also suggest taking the medication with food to help with nausea.