August 20, 2025

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. Thanks to treatment, HIV is no longer a deadly disease and can be managed. But there is still no cure, and it remains a serious health problem around the world. Even with effective treatment, HIV can cause chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of stroke, heart disease and dementia. That’s why HIV prevention is so important.

What Is  PrEP?

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a type of medicine that helps protect people from contracting HIV. There are two main types:

• Daily pills – You take one pill every day.
• Injectables – You get a shot every few months.

PrEP has changed a lot over the last 10 years. According to Stephen Pagkalinawan, MD, and Annie Kou-Chow, MD, both physicians at the Partnership Comprehensive Care Practice, these are the forms of PrEP currently on the market:

• Daily oral PrEP
• Truvada – approved for all adults and adolescents 12 and older 
• Descovy – approved for cisgender men and transgender women
• Long-acting injectable PrEP
• Cabotegravir (Apretude) – taken every two months
• Lenacapavir – currently under early rollout, taken every six months

Traditional daily oral medications like Truvada and Descovy have proven effective but only work if they are taken as directed, which can be challenging for some. Injectables require fewer provider visits, which can be better for those with busier lifestyles or who are unhoused.

Why Lenacapavir Is Exciting

Lenacapavir is a new kind of PrEP injectable that only needs to be taken every six months. That means fewer visits and no need to remember a daily pill. This is great for people with busier schedules or who are prone to forgetting to take daily medications.

While lenacapavir  can be a game changer for some, it is not for everyone. According to Dr. Pagkalinawan, patients considering lenacapavir would have to be comfortable with needles and have the flexibility in their schedule to come into the office for injections.

Who Should Think About PrEP?

According to Dr. Pagkalinawan, anyone who is sexually active or uses injectable drugs should think about PrEP. It’s the best way to stay safe and healthy. It is important to talk openly with your provider about your life and health so they can help you find a solution that works best for you.
If you are thinking about talking to your provider about PrEP, here are a few tips from Dr. Kou-Chow:

• Be open with your provider about your sexual practices and risk factors — there's no judgment.
• Know that there are many PrEP options and consider which one is right for you.
• Ask about labs (e.g., HIV test, kidney function) that are required before starting.
• Insurance often covers PrEP, and assistance programs are available if you’re uninsured.
• Prevention is personalized — there's no one-size-fits-all.

What Sets the Partnership Apart?

The Partnership has been providing care to the community for over 30 years. It serves a large, diverse population who have continued to come back year after year. According to Corrie Tice, a case manager at Caring Together, the Partnership takes a patient-centered approach to health care. A team of medical providers, nurses, medical assistants, social workers, front desk and support staff collaborate closely with patients on their individual care plans. Many patients have even stated that the clinic feels like family to them.

According to Dr. Kou-Chow, the Partnership personalizes care by:

• Asking inclusive, nonjudgmental questions
• Offering culturally competent care with providers trained in LGBTQ+ health
• Discussing different formulations and how they fit into someone’s lifestyle
• Screening for social determinants like housing, insurance or intimate partner violence
• Collaborating with youth and community-based organizations to meet people where they are

Lenacapavir is a new and exciting way to prevent HIV. According to Dr. Kou-Chow, effective prevention strategies like injectable PrEP empower people to take control of their sexual health and reduce stigma. With accessible options like lenacapavir and caring clinics like the Partnership, more people can stay safe and healthy. HIV prevention is getting easier — and that’s good news for everyone.