PrEP in Singapore: what it is and how to access it
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily or on-demand medication that prevents HIV infection. Over 99% effective when taken correctly. This page is a general guide to PrEP — what it is, who it's for, the regimens available, and what to expect from the monitoring schedule.
PrEP is not currently offered as a service at Mediway Medical Centre. This page is provided as educational reference. If you are looking to start PrEP, the DSC Clinic (run by the National Skin Centre / MOH) and various private infectious-disease specialists in Singapore prescribe and monitor PrEP. For HIV testing or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), see our HIV testing page or PEP page.
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is medication taken by HIV-negative people to prevent HIV infection BEFORE potential exposure. When taken correctly, PrEP reduces the risk of sexually transmitted HIV by over 99%.
It works by maintaining a protective level of antiretroviral medication in your system, so if you're exposed to HIV, the virus cannot establish infection in your cells. PrEP is one of the most effective HIV prevention tools available today.
For a broader overview of HIV (symptoms, testing, transmission, treatment) see our HIV guide.
Who should consider PrEP?
PrEP is recommended for HIV-negative people with ongoing or increased risk of HIV exposure.
PrEP is typically considered if you:
- Have a sexual partner who is HIV-positive (and not on suppressive ART)
- Have multiple sexual partners and inconsistent condom use
- Are a man who has sex with men (MSM)
- Are a transgender person at risk of HIV exposure
- Use injecting drugs with shared equipment
- Engage in commercial sex work
- Have been diagnosed with an STI in the past 6 months (indicates higher-risk sexual context)
- Have used PEP multiple times in the past 12 months
Even if you don't fit a specific risk category, PrEP may still be right for you. A PrEP-prescribing doctor will assess your situation at the initial consultation and help you decide.
PrEP regimens: daily or on-demand
Two ways to take PrEP. Both are highly effective when taken correctly.
Daily PrEP
Most common · works for everyoneOne pill, every day, at the same time. Builds and maintains protection continuously. Takes 7 days (for anal sex) or 21 days (for vaginal sex / injection drug use) to reach full protection after starting.
Suitable for: Men, women, transgender individuals, anyone at ongoing HIV risk.
On-demand (2-1-1) PrEP
Event-driven · MSM onlyTake pills only around specific sexual encounters. Cheaper because you take fewer pills overall, but requires planning ahead (2+ hours before sex).
Suitable for: Men who have sex with men (MSM) only. Not recommended for women, trans women, or people who inject drugs; those groups need daily PrEP.
A PrEP-prescribing doctor will recommend the right regimen based on your sexual-health profile, preferences, and lifestyle at your initial consultation.
PrEP medications
Two medication options are commonly used for PrEP in Singapore. Both are highly effective; the choice depends on the patient's health profile.
Truvada
- First-line PrEP for most patients
- Extensively studied since 2012; strong long-term safety data
- Compatible with both daily and on-demand (2-1-1) regimens
- Rare side effects: small kidney function changes, slight bone density reduction (both monitored quarterly)
Descovy
- Alternative PrEP for patients who need a gentler kidney/bone profile
- Recommended if you have pre-existing kidney issues or osteoporosis risk
- Daily PrEP only (not approved for on-demand use)
- Not approved for HIV-prevention in people assigned female at birth
- Clinical effectiveness is equivalent to Truvada for appropriate patients
Which one is typically used? Most patients start on generic Truvada. Descovy is prescribed when clinically indicated, typically for those with reduced kidney function or osteoporosis concerns. The prescribing doctor will recommend an option based on baseline test results.
What to expect when starting PrEP
Starting PrEP at any clinic typically follows this 4-step pathway.
Initial consultation
Discuss sexual health history, risk profile, and preferences. The doctor confirms PrEP suitability and which regimen fits.
Baseline tests
HIV (must be negative), hepatitis B, kidney function, STI screening. Results typically in 1–5 working days.
Prescription
Once baseline tests are clear, the doctor issues the PrEP prescription. Take as directed (daily or 2-1-1).
Quarterly follow-up
Follow-up consultation plus monitoring tests every 3 months for as long as PrEP is taken.
Monitoring schedule
Safe PrEP use requires regular monitoring. The schedule below is standard international practice.
| When | What's tested |
|---|---|
| Baseline (before starting) | HIV, hepatitis B, kidney function (creatinine), STI screen |
| Every 3 months (while on PrEP) | HIV, kidney function, STI screen |
| Every 6 months | Hepatitis B status, additional lipid panel (if on Descovy) |
| When stopping PrEP | HIV test at stop date + 4 weeks after (to confirm seroconversion window is clear) |
If any baseline or quarterly test comes back abnormal, the prescribing doctor will advise next steps. In rare cases, the regimen may be paused or switched.
Side effects and safety
PrEP medications have been used globally since 2012 with strong long-term safety data. Most people tolerate them well.
Common mild side effects (first 1-4 weeks)
- Nausea, mild stomach upset
- Headache
- Tiredness
- These usually improve within 2-4 weeks. If they persist, follow up with the prescribing clinic.
Rare long-term concerns (monitored quarterly)
- Small changes in kidney function, detected early with blood tests
- Slight reduction in bone mineral density (Truvada); Descovy has a better profile here
- Both are reversible if PrEP is stopped or switched
These are tracked at every quarterly visit. If concerning changes appear, the prescribing doctor can adjust the regimen.
Frequently asked questions
01 Where can I get PrEP in Singapore?
02 What's the difference between daily and on-demand (2-1-1) PrEP?
03 Which is better: Truvada or Descovy?
04 Do I need baseline tests before starting PrEP?
05 How often do I need follow-up tests?
06 Is PrEP safe long-term?
07 Will my insurance or employer know I'm on PrEP?
08 Can I stop and restart PrEP?
Looking for PrEP in Singapore?
PrEP is not currently offered at Mediway Medical Centre. For PrEP prescription and monitoring, contact the DSC Clinic (MOH-run) or a private infectious-disease specialist. For HIV testing or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), Mediway can help.
Directions
Located in central Singapore, just a 2-minute walk from Clarke Quay MRT.
Mon–Fri before 5/6pm: $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.00 for next subsequent 30min from 7am to 5pm
Mon–Fri after 5/6pm: $3.21/entry from 5pm to 7am the following day
Sat: $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.00 for next subsequent 30min from 7am to 5pm, $3.21/entry from 5pm to 7am the following day
Sun/PH: $3.21/entry from 7am to 7am the following day
Exit E. 2-minute walk along the river towards The Riverwalk building. We are at #B1-26/29.