PrEP and Hormone Therapy: What You Need to Know

For transgender women, Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a great option to reduce the risk of HIV. In fact, we now know that PrEP can be taken alongside hormone therapy, without compromising either treatment. However, it’s important to understand the differences between PrEP medications such as Truvada and Descovy and the type of hormones a person might be taking. Let’s explore this further.   

What is PrEP?  

PrEP is an effective way to prevent HIV infection. It involves taking one pill every day which contains two HIV medications that stop HIV from establishing itself in your body if you come into contact with it. The most common PrEP medication is Truvada, but there is also Descovy. 

 

Which PrEP Medication Should I Take?  

The type of hormone a person is taking will affect which PrEP medication a person can take. Truvada does not reduce hormone levels and so it is safe for those taking all types of hormones including testosterone. Although Descovy is unlikely to affect hormone levels, researchers still need to study it further before giving approval for its use in those taking testosterone or other hormones. A 2020 study looked at the interaction between testosterone and PrEP in 24 transgender men who were HIV-negative, and had been taking testosterone for at least 6 months. The study found that Truvada was safe for people of all gender identities, including those taking testosterone. However, there is currently limited research on Descovy and it is not currently approved for people who are using testosterone as part of their transition process or maintenance regimen.    

It's clear that PrEP can be an effective tool in preventing HIV infection among transgender women – even when taken alongside hormone therapy such as testosterone – although further research still needs to be done on the impact of certain medications on hormone levels. The important thing to remember is that regardless of what kind of hormones you are taking, Truvada remains a safe option for protecting yourself against HIV infection – so talk with your doctor about whether this could be right for you!