DESCOVY

Meet DESCOVY: A Modern Twist on HIV Prevention!

Let’s talk PrEP—no, not the kind you cram for, but the kind that protects your health. DESCOVY® for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a once-daily prescription pill that’s changing the game in HIV prevention. It’s designed for HIV-negative adults and teens who want reliable protection from HIV acquired through sex.

So, What Is DESCOVY?

DESCOVY combines two powerful ingredients: emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). Think of it as the newer, more kidney-and-bone-friendly sibling of Truvada®. It’s especially suited for:

• Adults and adolescents (weighing at least 77 pounds)
• Cisgender men and transgender women
• People seeking a PrEP option that fits their lifestyle

Heads-up: DESCOVY isn’t approved for people assigned female at birth who are at risk through vaginal sex—because it hasn’t been studied for that group yet.

What Makes DESCOVY Different?

DESCOVY uses TAF, a modern upgrade to the older TDF found in Truvada. TAF:

• Delivers higher drug concentrations where they matter
• Is gentler on kidneys and bones
• May be more forgiving if you occasionally miss a dose

In the DISCOVER Study, DESCOVY held up just as well as Truvada—and with fewer reported HIV cases (6 vs. 11), though the difference wasn’t statistically significant. Translation: DESCOVY gets the job done, and it does so with a gentler touch.

How to Take It

One tablet, once a day. With food or without—it’s up to you.

Each tablet contains:

• 200 mg emtricitabine
• 25 mg tenofovir alafenamide

Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Don’t double up.

Not suitable if:

• You have severe kidney issues (CrCl < 30 mL/min)
• You're on dialysis

Before You Start

Before you pop your first DESCOVY, make sure:

• You’re HIV-negative (confirmed with a test)
• You’re regularly checking your status every 3 months
• You tell your healthcare provider if you’ve had flu-like symptoms recently
• This ensures you’re starting DESCOVY safely and effectively.

DESCOVY vs. Truvada

Both are strong HIV prevention tools. DESCOVY may have the edge in kidney and bone health, but both are backed by science and widely recommended. The best option? The one that fits your health needs and routine.

Don’t Forget: It Doesn’t Stop Other STIs

• DESCOVY shields you from HIV, but not:
  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia
  • Syphilis
  • Herpes (and the rest of the STI squad)
• To reduce STI risk:
  • Use condoms
  • Communicate with partners
  • Test regularly

Side Notes: Hepatitis B

DESCOVY also fights hepatitis B (HBV), but if you already have HBV and stop taking DESCOVY, the infection could flare up. That’s why it’s key to work closely with your healthcare provider—especially when starting or stopping.

PrEP is Expanding—So Are Your Options

From daily pills to long-acting injectables and future implants, PrEP is becoming more flexible than ever. Whether you’re just getting started or switching things up, the choices are growing to fit every lifestyle.

Talk to Someone Who Gets It

Curious about DESCOVY? Nervous about starting PrEP? You’re not alone.

Clinics like PULSE CLINIC (Social Enterprise), a proud social enterprise, offer judgment-free, informed care year-round. Whether you need answers, a prescription, or just a conversation—you’re covered.

Prevention is power. DESCOVY gives you the control. And PULSE CLINIC (Social Enterprise) is here to help you use it. 

PrEP Medications at PULSE CLINIC (Social Enterprise)