PrEP Uptake and Discontinuation Among a U.S. National Sample of Transgender Men and Women

• DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03064-0
• Publication Date: 2020-10-15T13:02:52Z
• Authors: Meagan Zarwell; Steven A. John; Drew Westmoreland; Chloe Mirzayi; David W. Pantalone; Sarit Golub; Denis Nash; Christian Grov
• Keywords: Discontinuation; Pre-exposure prophylaxis; Transgender women

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has revolutionized HIV prevention efforts by effectively preventing the sexual transmission of HIV infection. Few studies have examined PrEP uptake and discontinuation among transgender individuals who are underserved in HIV prevention efforts. An online U.S. nationwide survey screened 294 HIV-negative transgender people for participation in a larger cohort study. We analyzed associations between demographic characteristics and PrEP use and discontinuation. We conducted thematic analyses of open-ended responses to identify reasons for PrEP discontinuation. Fifty-one participants (17.4%) reported ever receiving a PrEP prescription. Transgender men reported higher PrEP use than transgender women (χ2 = 18.06; p < 0.0001). PrEP discontinuation was reported by 49.0% of individuals who reported PrEP use. Reasons for PrEP discontinuation were related to side effects, insurance coverage, relationship status, and access to providers. HIV prevention efforts to increase PrEP should include mechanisms for PrEP uptake and re-initiation among transgender individuals.