03 February 26
Ending HIV
2-FUN-1-1: Your guide to on-demand PrEP
On-demand PrEP is an easy and flexible way of taking PrEP to help keep you protected from HIV.
Just like the name suggests, you take it “on-demand” or when you need it. No need to pop a pill every day, just a few pills around the time you intend to hook-up. It’s the same medication as daily PrEP, and taking less pill means it can save you a bit of cash too. Cha-ching!
How does it work?
On-demand PrEP follows a simple formula: 2-FUN-1-1.
- Take 2 pills anywhere between 2-24 hours before sex
- Have FUN! (AKA sexy time)
- Take 1 pill, 24 hours after your first dose
- Take 1 final pill, 24 hours after that
Or an easy way to remember it: Take 2 before fun, then 1 and 1.
If you follow the 2-FUN-1-1 formula, then on-demand PrEP is as safe and effective taking PrEP daily.
Who can take on-demand PrEP?
Presently, on-demand PrEP is recommended for cisgender guys who have sex with guys, and some trans and gender diverse folk.
For trans folk, eligibility depends on a few factors:
- Sex assigned at birth
- Whether or not you are on hormones, and
- The types of sex you have
It’s ideal for those having sex once or less per week. If you’re having sex more often, daily PrEP is probably for you. But it’s always best to chat to your doctor or healthcare professional when deciding.
I want to start taking on-demand PrEP:
If you aren’t already taking PrEP at all, your first step will be to visit a doctor or sexual health clinic. They will discuss your eligibility, including whether on-demand is suitable for you, and complete the required testing for HIV and STIs and check your kidney function.
Once that’s complete, your doctor will give you a script for PrEP, which you can either take to a pharmacy in-store or buy it online through the personal importation scheme.
If you don’t have Medicare, call the Sexual Health Infolink (interpreters are available) to chat about accessing PrEP.