
HIV prevention has come a long way in recent years. One of the most effective tools available today is PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) — a medication that helps people who are HIV-negative protect themselves from HIV infection.
Traditionally, PrEP was taken as a daily pill, which works very well for people who take it consistently. But let’s face it — remembering to take a pill every day isn’t easy for everyone. That’s where injectable PrEP steps in.
Apretude (cabotegravir) is the world’s first long-acting injectable PrEP. Instead of taking a tablet every day, you get a simple injection once every two months — offering strong, continuous protection against HIV without the hassle of daily pills.
In Singapore, Pulse Clinic Singapore is one of the leading clinics offering Apretude. Their team specialises in HIV prevention, sexual health, and LGBTQ+ care, providing confidential, expert advice for anyone considering injectable PrEP.
What Is Apretude and How Does It Work?
Apretude contains cabotegravir, an advanced type of medication known as an integrase inhibitor. It works by preventing HIV from replicating inside your body if you are exposed to the virus.
Because cabotegravir stays in your system for weeks, a single injection provides up to eight weeks of protection. This means fewer clinic visits, fewer worries about forgetting pills, and more peace of mind.
In Singapore, Apretude is prescribed and administered by trained healthcare professionals — such as those at Pulse Clinic Singapore — ensuring safety and effectiveness from start to finish.
Apretude must be given by a doctor or nurse, and the process is simple and quick. Here’s what the typical schedule looks like:
Each appointment usually takes 15–30 minutes, and the injection is given in the buttock muscle (gluteal area).
At Pulse Clinic Singapore, the entire process is handled discreetly and professionally, ensuring your comfort and confidentiality.
| How to use Apretude 1 | How to use Apretude 2 | |||
| Month 1 | 1 inj starter dose 1 | Month 1 | Daily starter pills (30 days) | |
| Month 2 | 1 inj starter dose 2 | Month 2 | 1 inj (day 30 or within 3 days) | |
| Month 3 | - | Month 3 | - | |
| Month 4 | 1 inj | Month 4 | 1 inj | |
| Month 5 | - | Month 5 | - | |
| Month 6 | 1 inj | Month 6 | 1 inj | |
| Month 7 | - | Month 7 | - | |
| Month 8 | 1 inj | Month 8 | 1 inj | |
| Month 9 | - | Month 9 | - | |
| Month 10 | 1 inj | Month 10 | 1 inj | |
| Month 11 | - | Month 11 | - | |
| Month 12 | 1 inj | Month 12 | 1 inj | |
| How to use Apretude when you party in Asia | How to use Apretude 2 | ||||
| JAN | 1 inj starter dose 1 | Month 1 | Daily starter pills (30 days) | ||
| FEB | 1 inj starter dose 2 | Month 2 | 1 inj (day 30 or within 3 days) | ||
| MAR | - | Month 3 | - | ||
| APR | Songkran Circuit BKK | 1 inj | Month 4 | 1 inj | |
| MAY | - | Month 5 | - | ||
| JUN | Pattaya Circuit | 1 inj | Month 6 | 1 inj | |
| JUL | Month 7 | - | |||
| AUG | White Party Vietnam | 1 inj | Month 8 | 1 inj | |
| SEP | - | Month 9 | - | ||
| OCT | Taipei Pride | 1 inj | Month 10 | 1 inj | |
| NOV | - | Month 11 | - | ||
| DEC | Wonderfruit White Party BKK | 1 inj | Month 12 | 1 inj | |
Choosing Apretude (cabotegravir) for HIV prevention offers a new level of simplicity, consistency, and peace of mind. Unlike daily oral PrEP, Apretude provides long-lasting protection with just one injection every two months — making it ideal for people who want an easier, more private, and worry-free prevention option.
Here’s why more people in Singapore are switching to injectable PrEP:
In short, injectable PrEP makes HIV prevention simpler, stronger, and more convenient for modern lifestyles.
Apretude isn’t just convenient — it’s inclusive. It’s designed to meet the diverse prevention needs of all people, regardless of gender or identity.
Apretude offers reliable, long-lasting protection without the need for daily pills. It supports women’s sexual health by providing a hassle-free, private, and effective way to prevent HIV — empowering women to take charge of their wellbeing.
With Apretude, men can enjoy powerful HIV protection without the stress of daily medication. The injection schedule is simple, discreet, and highly effective — perfect for men who want continuous coverage and peace of mind.
Injectable PrEP is a game-changer for gay and bisexual men, enhancing adherence and providing a convenient, stigma-free prevention method. It fits seamlessly into everyday life while offering near-complete protection.
Apretude provides a safe, inclusive prevention option for transgender individuals. It avoids potential interactions with gender-affirming hormones and supports consistent HIV protection through a simple, bi-monthly injection.
Extensive global research confirms that Apretude (cabotegravir) is one of the most effective HIV prevention tools available today.
With its combination of convenience, privacy, and proven effectiveness, Apretude injectable PrEP is reshaping how people in Singapore — and around the world — protect themselves from HIV.
| Route/Sex | Straight Men | Straight Women | Gay & Bisexuals | Trans Women | Trans Men |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral Sex | >99% | >99% | >99% | >99% | >99% |
| Anal Sex | >99% | >99% | >99% | >99% | >99% |
| Vaginal Sex | >99% | >99% | >99% | >99% | >99% |
Injectable PrEP is suitable for HIV-negative individuals who want consistent protection with minimal effort. It’s especially helpful for people who:
If you’re not sure whether injectable PrEP is right for you, the doctors at Pulse Clinic Singapore can provide a private consultation to evaluate your health, lifestyle, and risk level, then help you choose the most effective prevention plan.
You should not start Apretude if you:
Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and test results before starting PrEP to ensure it’s safe for you.
| Feature | Injectable PrEP (Apretude) | Oral PrEP (Truvada / Descovy) |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Injection every 2 months | Daily pill |
| Main Ingredient | Cabotegravir | Tenofovir + Emtricitabine |
| Adherence | Very high | Depends on daily consistency |
| Effectiveness | Over 90% | Around 90% with perfect use |
| Privacy | Very discreet | Less discreet |
| Clinic Visits | Every 2 months | Every 3 months |
Both methods are highly effective — the choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and comfort level.
Most people tolerate Apretude very well. Any side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Common side effects include:
Less common but possible side effects:
If you experience unusual symptoms or discomfort after an injection, contact your doctor or Pulse Clinic Singapore right away.
1. Is Apretude available in Singapore?
Yes. Apretude is now available in Singapore through selected HIV prevention clinics such as Pulse Clinic Singapore, as well as some hospitals and private medical centres.
2. How effective is injectable PrEP?
Apretude is over 90% effective in preventing HIV and is proven to be even more effective than daily oral PrEP for some individuals.
3. Can I switch from oral PrEP to injectable PrEP?
Yes, switching is possible and quite common. Your doctor will guide you through a smooth transition to ensure you remain fully protected.
4. Does injectable PrEP protect against other STIs?
No. Apretude protects only against HIV, not other sexually transmitted infections. Regular STI testing and condom use are still recommended.
5. How much does Apretude cost in Singapore?
The cost varies depending on the clinic, consultation fees, and lab tests. Contact Pulse Clinic Singapore for accurate, up-to-date pricing and package options.
You can receive Apretude (Cabotegravir) Injectable PrEP from:
At Pulse Clinic Singapore, consultations are discreet, respectful, and tailored to your needs. Their team provides both oral and injectable PrEP options, along with sexual health counselling and STI screening.
Injectable PrEP, such as Apretude (cabotegravir), represents a major step forward in HIV prevention. With its convenient two-month schedule, proven effectiveness, and long-lasting protection, it’s an excellent choice for those who want to stay HIV-free with minimal effort.
If you’re thinking about starting PrEP — or switching from oral to injectable — Pulse Clinic Singapore can help you every step of the way. Their professional team will ensure you receive safe, private, and comprehensive care.
Parnrawee Wadbua