PrEP (HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis) can be ordered online
Order OnlineWhat is HIV?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that infects CD4-positive lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) responsible for the body's immune function, gradually weakening immunity. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact (especially unprotected sex), blood-borne transmission (e.g., sharing needles), and mother-to-child transmission.
Even if infected with HIV, there are often no symptoms immediately after infection, or only temporary flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. It is common for several years to 10 years to pass without any noticeable symptoms.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)
If left untreated, immunity significantly decreases, leading to the development of AIDS, where the body becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections (infections caused by pathogens that normally wouldn't cause problems) and cancer.
Thanks to advances in treatment, early detection and continuous appropriate treatment (antiretroviral therapy) allow people living with HIV to live nearly normal lives without developing AIDS, similar to healthy individuals.
Consider PrEP if:
- You frequently have unprotected sex
- You have sex with multiple partners
- Your partner is HIV positive or their HIV status is unknown
- You use injectable drugs, or have a partner who does
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a prevention method where individuals at high risk of contracting HIV take anti-HIV medication in advance to prevent infection even if exposed to the virus.
When taken as scheduled, PrEP is said to prevent the risk of HIV infection from sexual activity by approximately 99%. While PrEP is not yet widespread in Japan, it is recognized globally as an important HIV prevention method. The WHO (World Health Organization) states that "PrEP should be offered as a prevention choice for all people at substantial risk of HIV infection," and has issued guidelines.
Information on Unapproved Medications
The Descovy generic medication used at our clinic is not approved in Japan as an HIV prophylactic and is considered off-label use. It is imported by our clinic through a formal process approved by the Ministry of Health and is a self-pay service not covered by insurance. Availability of approved domestic medications: Yes
Daily PrEP and On-Demand PrEP
There are two types of PrEP: Daily PrEP and On-Demand PrEP. To prevent an increased risk of HIV infection due to missed doses, our clinic generally recommends Daily PrEP.
Comparison of Daily PrEP and On-Demand PrEP
| Item | Daily PrEP | On-Demand PrEP |
|---|---|---|
| Dosing method | One tablet daily, at the same time | Two tablets 2-24 hours before sexual activity, then one tablet 24 hours later and one tablet 48 hours later (total 4 tablets) |
| Advantages |
・Less likely to miss a dose |
・Only take when sexually active ・More cost-effective |
| Recommended for | ・Individuals with continuously high HIV infection risk ・Individuals who find it difficult to plan doses |
・Individuals with infrequent sexual activity ・Individuals who can plan in advance ・Individuals who want to reduce costs |
| Precautions | Daily continuation required | Risk of missed doses, may not be suitable for individuals with hepatitis B |
If you miss a dose
For Daily PrEP
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. If you continue to miss doses, sufficient preventive effects may not be achieved.
For On-Demand PrEP
If you forget to take the two tablets before sexual activity, take them as soon as possible and continue with the subsequent schedule (one tablet 24 hours later and one tablet 48 hours later) as usual. However, if the timing deviates significantly from the prescribed schedule (e.g., immediately before or after sexual activity), sufficient preventive effects may not be achieved.
About Side Effects
Side effects of PrEP may include headache, nausea, and abdominal bloating (occurring in about 2% of cases). Most are mild and usually disappear within about a month. If symptoms are severe or concerning, please consult a doctor.
Symptoms requiring attention
- Fever, fatigue, flu-like symptoms
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes)
- Dark urine, upper right abdominal pain
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it might indicate HIV infection before or immediately after starting PrEP, rather than side effects. Please consider getting tested at a local in-person clinic.
Testing Schedule
Our clinic requires tests to be conducted according to the guidelines. Regular testing is necessary to safely continue PrEP.
| Test Item | Before Starting | After Starting |
|---|---|---|
| HIV | Required | Every 3 months thereafter |
| Hepatitis B | Required | Annually |
| Kidney Function | Required (excluding individuals aged 50 or over, or with kidney impairment) | Annually |
If you cannot provide recent test results in your PrEP questionnaire, our clinic will ship HIV and Hepatitis B test kits to you, with an additional payment. If you can provide test results, you will be exempt from our clinic's test kits. *HIV test results within 1 month, Hepatitis B test results within 3 months, and kidney function test results within 6 months are valid.
Our Prescription Process
Step ① Provisional Payment & Pre-Consultation
Select your desired plan and place an order. After ordering, please answer the questionnaire sent via LINE or email. If you have recent test results (HIV, Hepatitis B, kidney function), please be sure to provide them.
Step ② Online Consultation
A doctor will conduct counseling and prescribe medication via video call. All you need is a smartphone or PC. You can also consult about dosing methods (Daily PrEP or On-Demand PrEP).
Step ③ Same-Day Shipping (earliest)
Orders completed via video call by 3:00 PM daily will be shipped the same day. Your delivery will be packaged with privacy in mind.
Step ④ Regular Follow-up
To safely continue PrEP, you will undergo HIV testing every 3 months, and Hepatitis B and kidney function testing annually.
