The GGD is making PrEP more accessible by relaxing its rules. More people can now get free PrEP through the GGD.

PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a daily pill preventing HIV infection with 99 percent effectiveness. The medicine is especially important for high-risk individuals.

Until now, GGD rules for free PrEP were quite strict. People had to meet specific criteria to qualify. New guidelines now make PrEP accessible to more groups.

What exactly is changing?

The main change is the GGD's more flexible approach to risk groups. Previously, you had to fit specific categories for PrEP. Now the GGD considers each person's individual situation.

Transgender people also receive more attention in new guidelines. Their specific risks are now better recognised. This applies especially to transgender women with higher statistical HIV risk.

People can now more easily switch between different PrEP usage forms. Some take PrEP only during high-risk periods. Others use it year-round.

Who should use PrEP?

PrEP is mainly useful for people with increased HIV risk. Think of men having condomless sex with men. It can also help people with HIV-positive partners.

Transgender people, especially transgender women, face higher risk too. This happens through various factors, including healthcare discrimination. This sometimes limits their access to condoms or other prevention.

Sex workers form another important group. Their work increases HIV infection risk. PrEP can offer extra protection alongside condom use.

How does PrEP work?

PrEP contains two active substances: tenofovir and emtricitabine. These substances block HIV before it can multiply. The medicine must be used consistently to be effective.

There are two ways to use PrEP. Most people take a daily pill. This is called continuous PrEP. Others use PrEP only around high-risk moments. This is called event-driven PrEP.

Event-driven PrEP is only suitable for men having sex with men. Other groups receive daily use recommendations. This provides the best protection.

What are the side effects?

Most people tolerate PrEP well. Some experience mild side effects initially. Think of nausea, headaches or tiredness. These complaints usually disappear after several weeks.

Long-term use may affect kidneys and bones. Regular check-ups are therefore important. The GGD checks blood and kidney function every three months.

HIV and other STI testing also happen every three months. PrEP only protects against HIV. For other STIs, condom use remains important.

How do you get PrEP?

PrEP is available free through the GGD. You must first have an intake conversation. This assesses whether PrEP suits your situation.

PrEP is also available through general practitioners. You must pay for the medicine yourself. Costs are approximately 50 euros monthly. Some health insurers cover this partially.

You can buy PrEP online, but this is discouraged. Without medical supervision, you miss important check-ups. You also cannot be certain the medicine is genuine.

Why are the new guidelines important?

The Netherlands aims for zero new HIV infections by 2030. PrEP plays a crucial role here. More PrEP access means fewer new infections overall.

Relaxed guidelines can especially help reach vulnerable groups. People previously unable to access PrEP have better chances now. This could further reduce new HIV infections.

The RIVM closely monitors the new guidelines' effects. This helps them see whether targets are being met.