California To Make HIV-Prevention Drugs Available Without Subscription

Effective next year, HIV prevention drugs will be available in the State of California, without the need of a prescription.

Both pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), as well as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are covered, both of which help prevent HIV infections.

"The HIV epidemic is still a pressing issue today -- especially for LGBTQ people of color and folks in rural communities," non-profit organization Equality California’s executive director, Rick Zbur, said.

Gov. Gavin Newsom's signature, he said, is a "giant step forward in getting to zero transmissions, zero deaths and zero stigma.”

“By increasing access to life-saving HIV prevention medication, California — unlike the White House — is leading the country in the race to eliminate HIV. We owe a debt of gratitude to Senator Wiener and Assemblymember Gloria for their leadership and tireless advocacy.”

PrEP is more than 90% effective, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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