Is Long-Acting Injectable PrEP Right for Me?
- Jose Iorio
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
A Complete Guide to FDA-Approved Injectable HIV Prevention in Brooklyn
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has transformed HIV prevention. According to the CDC and New York State Department of Health, when taken as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%.
Now, there’s a powerful new option available: FDA-approved long-acting injectable PrEP, also known as Apretude.
Instead of taking a daily pill, you can receive an injection every two months.
If you live in Brooklyn and are wondering whether injectable PrEP is right for you, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Long-Acting Injectable PrEP?
Long-acting injectable PrEP (brand name Apretude, developed by Gilead’s partner ViiV Healthcare) contains cabotegravir, an antiretroviral medication that prevents HIV from establishing infection in the body.
Unlike daily oral PrEP pills such as Truvada or Descovy, injectable PrEP is administered by a healthcare provider once every 8 weeks after the initial starter doses.
After injection, the medication slowly releases into your bloodstream, maintaining protective drug levels without needing to remember a daily pill.
For many people, that consistency is a game-changer.
Why Brooklyn Residents Are Choosing Injectable PrEP
Across Brooklyn communities including Afro-American, Latino, Caribbean, LGBTQAI+, heterosexual, transgender, and cisgender individuals, injectable PrEP is gaining popularity because it offers:
1. Freedom from Daily Pills
No daily reminders. No pill bottles. No stress about missed doses.
2. Discretion
No visible medication at home or while traveling.
3. Powerful Protection
Clinical studies show injectable PrEP is highly effective and in some studies even more effective than daily oral PrEP because it removes adherence challenges.
4. Confidence
Protection that fits your lifestyle builds confidence in your relationships and sexual health choices.
Who Should Consider Long-Acting Injectable PrEP?
According to CDC and NYS Department of Health guidance, PrEP is recommended for anyone who does not have HIV and may be at risk.
Injectable PrEP may be ideal if you:
Have difficulty remembering daily medication
Prefer fewer doses per year
Want a discreet HIV prevention method
Recently used PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)
Have a partner with HIV and an unknown or detectable viral load
Do not consistently use condoms
Have recently been diagnosed with an STI
Share injection equipment
PrEP is for all genders and sexual orientations. It does not interfere with hormone therapy and is safe for transgender individuals.
It is also safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, according to CDC and NYSDOH guidance.
Who Should Not Start Injectable PrEP?
You must:
Test HIV-negative before starting
Commit to clinic visits every 2 months
Discuss any liver conditions or medical history with your provider
If you miss an injection by more than 7 days, you may need temporary oral medication until your next dose.
Your provider at STAR Health Center will guide you through this safely.
How to Start Injectable PrEP in Brooklyn
At STAR Health Center at SUNY Downstate, getting started is simple:
Step 1: HIV Testing
We confirm your HIV-negative status.
Step 2: Medical Assessment
We review your health history and discuss your lifestyle.
Step 3: Optional Oral Lead-In
Some providers recommend taking oral cabotegravir for about a month to check for side effects.
Step 4: First Injection
Administered by a trained healthcare professional.
Step 5: Maintenance Injections
Every 8 weeks to maintain protection.
You will also receive routine HIV and STI testing during follow-up visits.
Injectable PrEP vs Daily PrEP: What’s the Difference?
Feature | Injectable PrEP (Apretude) | Daily Oral PrEP (Truvada or Descovy) |
Dosing | Every 8 weeks | Every day |
Privacy | Very discreet | Pill bottle required |
Adherence | Lower risk of missed doses | Requires daily consistency |
Clinic Visits | Every 2 months | Every 3 months |
Effectiveness | Extremely high | Extremely high when taken daily |
Both options are safe and effective. The best choice depends on your lifestyle.
If you prefer flexibility and no daily pill, injectable PrEP may be right for you.
What Side Effects Should I Expect?
Most people tolerate injectable PrEP very well.
Possible side effects include:
Mild soreness at injection site
Temporary fatigue
Headache
Low-grade fever
These are usually mild and short-lived.
Your healthcare team monitors you throughout treatment.
Is Injectable PrEP Covered by Insurance?
Most insurance plans, including Medicaid and many private plans in New York, cover PrEP.
And if you have no insurance, no worries. We can help.
Through patient assistance programs and community support, cost should not stop you from accessing HIV prevention.
Why Choose STAR Health Center in Brooklyn?
STAR Health Center at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University provides:
Affirming, judgment-free care
Services for all genders and sexual orientations
Bilingual support
HIV testing, STI testing, PrEP, PEP, and DoxyPEP
Community-focused sexual health education
Address: 470 Clarkson Avenue, Suite J Brooklyn, NY 11203
Hours: Monday to Wednesday 9 AM to 5 PM Thursday 1:30 PM to 5 PM Friday 9 AM to 5 PM
Take Control of Your HIV Prevention Today
Long-acting injectable PrEP gives you powerful protection without the daily pill.
If you are sexually active, exploring relationships, in a committed partnership, or simply want peace of mind, PrEP is a proactive health decision.
You deserve prevention that fits your life.
👉 Learn more at www.GetMeOnPrEP.com
📲 Call or Text 347-909-1680
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