A new pill may be effective at preventing HIV in homosexual men

In a study, a pill, which is a combination of two HIV drugs, was tested among high-risk homosexual and bisexual men. With consistent use, it showed a 44 percent reduction of an uninfected high-risk man becoming infected with HIV.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEp, is an experimental approach which doctors are currently employing for this drug.

While the drug has not yet been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has already issued guidance for use of this drug.

The PrEp is suggested for use among healthcare providers and men who are sexually involved with other men. But, there are issues involved such as improper use of the drug or perhaps lack of screening before taking the drug. This drug is for those individuals who are HIV-negative.

Trials are currently being done regarding the use of this drug as PrEp. Its safety and efficacy is still unproven. In the guidance issued by the CDC, it was therefore recommended that the drug be used for high-risk homosexuals and bisexual men or men who have sex with men (MSM), the term used by the CDC for these individuals.

Despite use of the drug, the CDC still advocates testing for HIV, proper counseling, and having safe sex.