Starting PEP course - what shoud I expect from Truvada/Edurant?

[markman99]

Follow up to my encounter with a Bangkok prostitute.  I did use protection for vaginal intercourse, but not for fellatio and cunnilingus.  Went to Bumrungrad Hospital where I met with Dr. Ekachai Singhatiraj.  He felt that had I only done protected intercourse PEP would not be necessary, but since unprotected oral was in the picture, and small cuts/abrastions in the girl's mouth or vagina could be an issue.  

I have been prescribed a 3 day course of Edurant/Truvada which I began at approx. +63 hours.  I have read about the horrific side effects from earlier drugs, but heard that these next gen drugs are better tolerated - any stories to share?  I'm a bit scared of vomiting/uncontrolled diarrhea.

Felt like Dr. Singhatiraj (infectious disease specialist) prescribed this basically for my peace of mind that I've done everything I could've.  I'm trying to schedule an appointment with a HIV specialist (Dr. Asda Vibhagool) to see if the PEP is really necessary.  

What would your advice be regarding telling family that I'm on a strong medication course without revealing anything about a prostitute or HIV (which would FREAK them out completely)?

[shaunw84]

I think you have to consult with your doctor -- I'm not going to decide for you.

But going only on what you said, I would be leaning towards what you've said too -- not being on PEP.  Then you wouldn't have to say anything.

But if you had to stay on it (for some reason) then your answer could be as simple as taking them in private where the question never comes up.  

Be well

[shaunw84]

It seems that you've come to terms with your risks on your own!  That's great.  That's very good.

I agree that PEP (and PrEP) should not be used without due diligence and consideration.   No medicine should be used without weighting the risk/benefits.    

As you observed about the new drugs, here is what  the CDC says:  

"None of the studies found any significant safety concerns with use of daily oral PrEP. Some trial participants reported side effects such as an upset stomach or loss of appetite but these were mild and usually resolved in the first month."

PrEP is the same drug taken for PEP (accept usually there is another drug added to it.)

So there shouldn't be an irrational use of PEP/ PrEP and at the same time there shouldn't be an irrational fear of PEP/ PrEP.  

Assuming that well define precautions  are taken my the treating doctor.  And that's  these drugs are only  taken under close medical supervision.


Be well

[seucu]

In most countries it is not recommended to use PEP oral exposure for two reasons. Reason one: There is no real risk of infection through oral sex. Reason Two: The use of PEP without can undermine the effectiveness of this method of prevention when necessary. In life is not normal to prevent what does not entail risk. You had no risk and do not need any medical PEP, and not necessarily an expert who bother to study a little about HIV just as many here do not earn any money in return, will tell you the same has been said here . Forget this episode and if you do not deal well with sex without condom use this protection the next time, knowing you're protected for other diseases that may reach its physical and protecting his mind a fear without logical and scientific basis.

[markman99]

I'm hoping my appointment with the HIV specialist will result in me getting off the PEP.

[Vance2335]

You have no reason to be on PEP. You never had a risk.