Injectable PrEP
Injectable PrEP in Chiang Mai for Long-Lasting Prevention
Get injectable PrEP in Chiang Mai at PrEP by CWC Clinic—convenient, quick, and safe. Blood tests and medication are provided under medical supervision.
What is Injectable PrEP?
Injectable PrEP, or long-acting cabotegravir (CAB-LA), is an intramuscular injection administered in the hip area. It serves as an alternative to oral PrEP for HIV prevention.
How Often Should PrEP Be Injected?
The initial treatment requires two injections, one month apart, to quickly reach sufficient blood levels for early protection. After that, injections are recommended every two months.
When starting injections, drug levels are not yet high enough to prevent infection. It is advised to use condoms during sex for at least seven days. However, condoms remain necessary to prevent other sexually transmitted infections that PrEP does not protect against.
Who is Injectable PrEP Suitable For?
Injectable PrEP is suitable for people at risk of HIV infection, similar to oral PrEP, including:
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Men who have sex with men
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People with HIV-positive partners
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People at risk of unprotected sex
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Intravenous drug users
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Sex workers
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People with a history of sexually transmitted infections
It is especially recommended for individuals who take oral PrEP inconsistently or frequently forget doses, reducing its effectiveness. It is also a good option for those with kidney problems who cannot take oral PrEP.
Effectiveness of Injectable PrEP
Injectable PrEP (cabotegravir) is more effective than oral medication in preventing HIV infection in men who have sex with men and transgender women (Research paper). It is particularly beneficial for those who struggle with consistent pill-taking, as it maintains stable drug levels.
Side Effects of Injectable PrEP
Common side effects include pain or swelling at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and diarrhea.
Rare but serious side effects include allergic reactions, hepatitis, and depression. If you experience any severe symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Getting Injectable PrEP in Chiang Mai, Thailand
PrEP by CWC Chiang Mai Clinic offers both oral and injectable PrEP, as well as emergency PEP. The clinic specializes in HIV and STD services and is open daily.
Located in central Chiang Mai, the clinic is easily accessible, with ample parking. It features an in-house lab for HIV blood tests, providing results within 30 minutes, along with comprehensive STD testing and treatment services.
Steps to Receive Injectable PrEP at PrEP by CWC Chiang Mai Clinic
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Consultation – Discuss your medical history and current medications with a doctor, as some drugs may reduce cabotegravir's effectiveness.
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HIV Testing – A blood test is required to confirm that you are HIV-negative. Taking PrEP while infected can lead to drug resistance. If you had a recent HIV exposure (within the past month), inform your doctor, as the virus may not yet be detectable.
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Health Screening – Additional blood tests will assess liver and kidney function and check for other STDs.
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Injection – If results confirm you are HIV-negative, you will receive your PrEP injection. The entire process, from consultation to receiving the medication, will take place in a private room.
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Follow-Up – Schedule regular follow-up appointments for HIV testing and liver function monitoring. If you experience any unusual symptoms after the injection, contact the clinic for a consultation.
How Much Does Injectable PrEP Cost?
Cabotegravir injections at PrEP by CWC Chiang Mai Clinic cost 18,500 baht per dose.
Currently, injectable PrEP remains expensive as it is a newly developed medication that must be imported. As a more affordable alternative, oral PrEP is highly effective when taken consistently.