What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is antiretroviral medication that protects you from HIV before any possible exposure to the virus. It works by creating a protective barrier in the body that prevents HIV from establishing an infection.
Taken correctly, PrEP is up to 99% effective. It is prevention plain and simple.
Important to know:
Cyprus currently offers one of the most accessible PrEP programmes. Access is universal there are no exclusion criteria.
Completely free – No fees, no payments – No GESY registration required – No referral needed – Fully confidential – Bring ID or passport
PrEP is currently available at two public hospital clinics, by appointment only:
📍 Nicosia General Hospital Call to book: 22 603 550 View on map
📍 Larnaca General Hospital (Grigorios Clinic) Call to book: 24 800 363 View on map
Both clinics are free and confidential. Appointments are required — walk-ins are not accepted.
Note: In a future phase, PrEP will be made available through hospitals in all other cities in the Republic of Cyprus, and eventually through family doctors and pharmacies.
That’s it. You leave with everything you need to start.
Ongoing monitoring: After starting PrEP, you will have check-ups every 3 months (HIV and STI tests) and kidney/liver tests every 6 months. This is standard and ensures PrEP continues to work safely for you.
There are two methods. Your doctor will help you decide which is right for you.
💊 Daily PrEP One pill every day. The most reliable method, proven in large-scale studies. You reach 99% protection after 7 consecutive days. Suitable for everyone — cis and trans, men and women.
💊 On-Demand PrEP (2-1-1) Taken around sex rather than every day. The schedule is: 2 pills taken 2–24 hours before sex, 1 pill 24 hours after the first dose, 1 pill 48 hours after the first dose. Provides around 80–85% protection. This method is only recommended for cis men, trans women, and others assigned male at birth. It is not recommended for cis women, trans men, or others assigned female at birth.
⚠️ Taking more than the prescribed dose does not increase protection and may be harmful.
✔️ Protects against HIV
❌ Does NOT protect against other STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, etc.)
Condoms still matter. Regular testing still matters. PrEP adds a powerful layer of protection — it doesn’t replace other forms of care.
⚠️ A partner telling you they are on PrEP is not a guarantee of your own protection. Your health is your own responsibility.
PrEP is not a permanent commitment — you can stop whenever you choose. However, you should always consult your doctor before stopping. Do not stop abruptly without medical guidance.
To discuss stopping PrEP, contact your clinic or the Cyprus PrEP Point (details below).
The Cyprus PrEP Point is a free, community-run information and support centre operated by the AIDS Solidarity Movement (ASM Cyprus). It offers guidance, information and support about PrEP in a safe, non-judgmental environment. All services are free, anonymous and confidential.
This is the right place to start if you have questions, feel unsure, or want to talk to someone before booking a clinic appointment.
📞 9960 7005 📍 Located in Nicosia — View on map 🌐 www.asmcyprus.org/cy-prep-point