- Updated
Everything You Need to Know About the New 6-Month Injectable PrEP – Tampa Bay & Beyond
At Metro Inclusive Health, we’re proud to bring the latest in HIV prevention to the Tampa Bay region, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, New Port Richey, Brandon, and across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties. Yeztugo (lenacapavir) is the first long-acting injectable PrEP that lasts up to 6 months per dose, and we’re here to help you get started.
FAQs About Yeztugo
What is Yeztugo?
Yeztugo is a long-acting FDA-approved HIV prevention medication. Unlike daily PrEP pills, this option is given as an injection just once every 6 months.
How is It Taken?
- Administered under the skin of the abdomen by a METRO provider in one of our Tampa Bay area clinics.
- At initiation, you’ll also take a short course of oral pills alongside your first injection to ensure protective medication levels.
- No daily pill is required after the first dose.
How Do I Get Started?
- Schedule a visit at any METRO location in Tampa, St. Petersburg, New Port Richey, or Brandon.
- Complete labs for HIV, STIs, kidney and liver function, and Hepatitis B.
- Receive your first injection in-clinic; follow-up doses every 6 months include repeat testing.
Who is Eligible?
- Adults and adolescents (16+ with parental consent) at risk of HIV exposure, including individuals assigned female at birth.
- Must test HIV-negative before starting.
What is the Insurance Coverage in Hillsborough, Pinellas & Pasco Counties?
- Medicare covers Yeztugo now with no cost to the patient.
- Most private insurers and Medicaid plans in the Tampa Bay region are expected to follow.
- METRO will confirm your coverage and contact you when you’re ready to start.
What are the Side Effects & Risks?
- Common: Injection site redness, swelling, pain, bumps; nausea, headache, fatigue.
- Rare but serious: Possible HIV resistance if doses are missed or delayed and HIV is contracted during the “tail period” when drug levels decline.
- Still new for prevention use—long-term real-world data is limited.
What Happens if I Miss a Dose?
- Injections must be given on time every 6 months.
- If missed, you may need to restart labs or transition to oral PrEP before your next injection.
Can I Switch Between Different Types of PrEP?
Yes—you can move between daily oral PrEP and injectable PrEP with guidance from your provider.
Does Yeztugo Protect Against Other STIs?
No. Yeztugo only prevents HIV. Regular STI testing and safer sex practices are still recommended.
What's the Difference Between Daily PrEP vs. Every 6 Months?
Daily PrEP is taken as one pill each day, making it easy to start or stop and ideal for those who thrive on routines. It’s covered by most insurances and, in many cases, can be started the same day. Long-acting PrEP is given as an injection every six months, requiring clinic visits and testing, and is a great option for those who often forget daily pills. While coverage for the injection is still expanding, it typically begins after your initial testing and clinic visit.
How Do I Get Started?
- Join our waitlist and fast-track yourself to long-acting PrEP as soon as your insurance coverage is available.
- Book a PrEP consultation online or call METRO at 727-321-3854.
- Already on PrEP? Ask about switching to Yeztugo.
- Fill your prescriptions at Metro Inclusive Pharmacy or a Copay It Forward™ partner pharmacy to help fund care for uninsured patients—at no extra cost to you.
