Have you seen the commercials about the little blue pill you take once a day to prevent HIV? Well now there’s two equally effective options for PrEP.

(Image credit: pos.com)

Truvada and Descovy are both produced by the same pharmaceutical company called Gilead. Both medications are U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are approved for PrEP. While Truvada has been the go-to for PrEP for many years now, Descovy is the newcomer on the block. Though Descovy is the newest drug, that doesn’t mean it is “better” or “safer” or that Truvada is worse. There are many similarities and few differences between the two.

Effectiveness: both Truvada and Descovy are 99% effective when taken on a daily regimen.

Who are the drugs effective for?

Truvada is proven to be effective for everyone, including:

• Gay & bisexual cis men
• Trans women
• Trans men
• Heterosexuals
• Cis women
• People who inject drugs

Descovy is only proven to be effective for:

• Gay & bisexual cis men
• Trans women

It’s important to note that currently there isn’t any clinical data to support use in people who may be exposed to HIV through injection drug use or vaginal sex.

Safety and symptoms: the side effects for both medications are typically minimal. Upon beginning Truvada or Descovy, people tend to experience a few symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms typically go away in the first three months of PrEP use.

Cost and insurance: without insurance both drugs are $1,845 per month. However, Truvada is covered by insurance, and Descovy is likely to be covered. Luckily, there are many assistance programs to help with the cost of both drugs.

Kidney and bone health: for those with a history of kidney issues or a history of family kidney disease, it’s suggested to avoid Truvada; Descovy is safer to take for people with kidney issues. Descovy is also safer for people with osteoporosis, while Truvada should be avoided.

Weight loss/gain: Descovy may cause slight weight gain, while Truvada may cause slight weight loss.

Lastly, if size matters, Truvada is a larger pill than Descovy.

In any case, you should discuss with a healthcare professional which medication is best suited for you and your health.

(Image credit: pulse-clinic.com)

This sweet, intelligent blogger is open to chat. Give me at call at (216-714-2223) or fill out the form next to this blog.