Some people might choose to stay on PrEP for a long period of time. Others might choose to stop taking PrEP after a short period of time, perhaps because they are having trouble taking the medication as prescribed or their sexual or substance use practices have changed.

There’s nothing wrong with an individual reviewing their behaviour and determining that what worked for them a month or a year ago for HIV prevention is no longer the best option for them now. 

What is key is that they make this decision through a comprehensive sexual health discussion with a healthcare provider that they trust. This is important for a few different reasons: 

• If an individual does decide to stop PrEP, it’s important that they have a plan in place for other HIV prevention options they will use in its place.

• The Alberta PrEP Guidelines recommend that people choosing to stop taking PrEP continue taking the medication for up to 28 days after their last potential HIV risk exposure and undergo follow-up HIV testing up to 8 weeks after they’ve stopped.