PrEP & PEP
PrEP Side Effects Guide
What's normal, and when to check in with a provider.
Most people have no side effects, and those that do usually find they ease within the first few weeks as the body settles. None of these mean PrEP isn't working. Here's a guide:
| Common, usually mild | When to seek care |
|---|---|
| Nausea or an upset stomach in the first weeks | If it's severe, lasts beyond a few weeks, or stops you eating. |
| Headache or feeling tired | If a headache is intense, sudden, or unusual for you. |
| Mild soreness at the injection site (CAB-LA) | If it becomes very painful, swollen, hot, or doesn't settle. |
| Vaginal discomfort or discharge (ring) | If you have pain, a bad odour, fever, or the ring won't stay in place. |
| Loose stools or appetite changes | If symptoms are severe, with fever, or you become dehydrated. |
Don't stop PrEP because of mild side effects, talk to your provider first. They can help you manage them or switch you to a method that suits you better.
Educational only, not a medical diagnosis.
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