What is PrEP
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a medication taken by HIV-negative people to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV. PrEP is a prescription medication in Canada — it is not available over the counter. It is used by gay and bi men and others who may benefit from HIV prevention, as determined in consultation with a healthcare provider. This guide provides general education about PrEP in Canada. It does not provide dosage information, recommend specific drug products, or advise readers on whether to start, stop, or continue PrEP. That decision belongs to you and your healthcare provider.
How to access PrEP in Canada
PrEP is prescribed by doctors, nurse practitioners, and some specialized sexual health clinics across Canada. You do not need a specialist referral to ask about PrEP — a conversation with your family doctor or a walk-in sexual health clinic is a reasonable starting point. Sexual health clinics in major cities, including HQ Toronto in Ontario and services within the BCCDC network in BC, have experience with PrEP prescriptions and monitoring. In Montreal, SIDEP+ provides access through the public health system. If your current provider is unfamiliar with PrEP, they may refer you to a clinic with more experience. CBRC's ADVANCE project and GMSH publish resources on accessing PrEP in Ontario and across Canada.
Provincial drug coverage considerations
Coverage for PrEP varies by province. Some provincial public drug benefit programs cover PrEP for eligible individuals — eligibility criteria and coverage levels differ between provinces. Private drug insurance may cover PrEP if included in your plan. Some provinces have specific access programs or manufacturer patient assistance programs that may reduce costs. Because coverage programs change, the most accurate current information will come from your pharmacist, your healthcare provider, or your provincial health authority. CATIE's website maintains updated information on PrEP access across Canadian provinces.
Monitoring and follow-up
People who take PrEP typically have regular check-ins with a healthcare provider. These appointments generally include HIV testing, STI screening, kidney function monitoring, and discussions about whether PrEP remains the right approach. The specific monitoring schedule is determined by the prescribing provider. This guide does not outline monitoring protocols — those conversations happen with your provider.
Questions to bring to your provider
When talking with a healthcare provider about PrEP, consider asking: whether PrEP may be appropriate for your situation; which provincial or private coverage options apply to you; what monitoring is involved; and whether there are other HIV prevention options to consider alongside or instead of PrEP. Being direct about what you are looking for helps your provider give you the most useful guidance. Sexual health clinics are generally experienced in this conversation and can help if your family doctor is less familiar.
General information disclaimer
Editorial guidance, not a clinical recommendation. PrEP is prescription-only — starting, continuing, switching or stopping all belong with a clinician. Provincial coverage programs change year to year; a clinician or pharmacist can confirm what's currently funded where you live.