PrEP for HIV Prevention in Lagos
Pre-exposure prophylaxis reduces the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99% when taken correctly. Available at all five ExCare Health locations — confidentially, and without judgement.
HIV is a serious but entirely preventable infection. PrEP — pre-exposure prophylaxis — is a daily medication that reduces the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99% when taken correctly. ExCare Health provides PrEP dispensing at all five of our locations across Lagos and Ogun State.
If you are at risk of HIV exposure, PrEP is one of the most effective tools available to protect your health. Our pharmacists will speak with you confidentially, without judgement, to help you understand whether PrEP is right for you.
PrEP is taken by people who do not have HIV to reduce the risk of infection. It is not a cure and does not treat HIV in people who are already positive.
What Is PrEP?
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a prescription medication taken daily by HIV-negative individuals to prevent HIV infection before any potential exposure occurs. When taken consistently and correctly, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by approximately 99%, and from injecting drug use by more than 74%.
PrEP works by maintaining a constant level of HIV-fighting medication in your bloodstream. If you are exposed to the virus, the medication prevents it from establishing a permanent infection in your body.
PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections. Using condoms alongside PrEP provides the broadest protection against both HIV and other STIs.
Who Should Consider PrEP?
PrEP is recommended for HIV-negative adults who have an ongoing risk of HIV exposure. You may benefit from PrEP if any of the following apply:
- You have a sexual partner who is HIV-positive or whose status is unknown
- You do not consistently use condoms during sex
- You have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the past 6 months
- You are a man who has sex with men
- You use injectable drugs and share needles or equipment
- You are a healthcare worker with potential occupational exposure to HIV
If you are unsure whether PrEP is appropriate for your situation, speak with one of our pharmacists. We will help you assess your risk honestly and without judgement.
How PrEP Works at ExCare Health
| STEP 1 | HIV test You must confirm that you are HIV-negative before starting PrEP. If you do not have a recent result, we can refer you to D-Rock Laboratory for same-day testing. |
| STEP 2 | Pharmacist consultation Our pharmacist will review your health history, discuss your risk profile, and confirm that PrEP is appropriate for you. This consultation is confidential. |
| STEP 3 | Start medication PrEP must be taken every day at the same time to maintain effectiveness. Full protection is typically reached after 7 days of consistent use for receptive anal sex, and 21 days for receptive vaginal sex. |
| STEP 4 | Follow-up every 3 months PrEP requires regular monitoring. Every 3 months you should have an HIV test, a kidney function test, and an STI screen. Our laboratory can process all required tests. |
Required Testing
Before starting PrEP
• HIV test (must be negative)
• Kidney function test (creatinine)
• Hepatitis B test
• STI screen (recommended)
Every 3 months while on PrEP
• HIV test
• Kidney function test
• STI screen
• Blood pressure check (annual)
Taking PrEP Correctly
| Scenario | What to do |
|---|---|
| I missed a dose | Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as normal. Do not double up. |
| I want to stop taking PrEP | Speak with our pharmacist before stopping. Abrupt discontinuation is safe but you should have an HIV test before and after stopping. |
| I think I was exposed to HIV | Contact us immediately. PEP is a different emergency medication that must be started within 72 hours of exposure. Do not continue PrEP as a substitute. |
| I have side effects | Mild nausea, headache, or fatigue in the first few weeks is common and usually settles. Persistent side effects should be reviewed by a pharmacist or doctor. |
Confidentiality
We understand that seeking PrEP is a personal decision. At ExCare Health, your consultation is private. Our pharmacists do not share your information with anyone outside your care without your consent. You do not need to justify your reasons for seeking PrEP.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for PrEP to work?
PrEP reaches full effectiveness after 7 days of consistent daily use for receptive anal sex, and approximately 21 days for receptive vaginal sex or injecting drug use. You must take it every day without missing doses.
Can I get PrEP if I am already on other medications?
Some medications interact with PrEP. Inform our pharmacist of any other medications you are taking before starting. We will review for interactions and advise accordingly.
Does PrEP protect against other STIs?
No. PrEP only prevents HIV. It does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydia, or herpes. Using condoms alongside PrEP provides broader protection.
Can women take PrEP?
Yes. PrEP is approved and effective for women, including pregnant and breastfeeding women in certain circumstances. Speak with our pharmacist to discuss your specific situation.
What if I think I was exposed to HIV and I am not on PrEP?
You need PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), not PrEP. PEP is an emergency treatment that must be started within 72 hours of exposure. Contact us immediately or go to the nearest emergency healthcare facility.
Is PrEP available at all ExCare Health branches?
Yes. PrEP is available at all five ExCare Health locations across Lagos and Ogun State. All branches are open 8am to 8pm daily.
Book an appointment
Our vaccination professionals are just a phone call away and ready to assist you personally.
Simply call
0707 838 9227
during our business hours, and a licensed Community Health Expert will help schedule your appointment, answer any questions about your vaccines, and ensure you have everything you need for your visit.
Find a branch
OPIC 1
OPIC 2
Chevron
Obanikoro
Lagos.
Ikota
Asaba
off Okpanam Road, Delta.
