Our Therapies

APRETUDE® Infusion Therapy

About APRETUDE® Injection Therapy

Apretude® (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension) is an FDA-approved pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication indicated for HIV-1 risk reduction in HIV-negative adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg (77 lbs) who are at risk of sexually acquiring HIV-1. It is given as a intramuscular injection every two months following initial loading doses, offering a long-acting alternative to daily oral PrEP regimens.

a man in a massage chair looking up at his nurse smiling while the nurse checks on him looking at his arm with an IV in it.

Conditions and Uses

Apretude® is used to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 in eligible HIV-negative adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg (77 lbs).

Patients must test negative for HIV-1 before starting Apretude® and before each injection. Apretude® is not approved to treat an existing HIV-1 infection.

APRETUDE® Price

The cost of prescription medications can vary depending on your insurance coverage. If you're concerned about the price of your medication:

Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about lower-cost alternatives
Check with the drug manufacturer about financial assistance programs
Explore patient assistance options if you're uninsured or underinsured

Remember, many resources exist to help patients access necessary medications. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you're struggling with medication costs. No patient should go without necessary treatment due to financial limitations. If you have questions about financial assistance opportunities, contact a member of our Violet Health team.

What to Expect During APRETUDE® Injection Therapy

When you arrive at our West Bloomfield location, you’ll receive care in a private, welcoming environment designed with your comfort and discretion in mind. Our experienced clinical team will:

Review your current health status, medications, and medical history
Confirm your HIV-1 testing requirements have been completed
Check your vital signs before treatment
Administer Apretude® as an intramuscular injection in the buttock
Monitor you briefly after the injection
Help schedule your next dose according to your prescribed treatment plan

The injection itself takes only a few moments. You may experience brief discomfort or soreness at the injection site. Apretude® is typically administered after the initial dosing schedule once every two months, offering a long-acting alternative to taking daily oral PrEP medication. Individual experiences and appointment times may vary. Apretude® must be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider and is not used to treat an existing HIV-1 infection.

APRETUDE® Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Apretude® may cause side effects. The most common are reactions at the injection site, including pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, itching, warmth, bruising, discoloration, or a hardened area or lump.

Other possible side effects include:

Headache or dizziness
Tiredness or drowsiness
Fever
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Stomach pain or gas
Muscle or back pain
Sleep problems
Rash
Decreased appetite
Upper respiratory infection

Apretude® may also cause serious side effects, including severe allergic reactions, liver problems, and depression or mood changes. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience unusual or concerning symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention for difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, mouth, lips, or tongue; a severe rash; yellowing of the skin or eyes; or thoughts of self-harm.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of Apretude®.

Patient Forms

Before you attend your first appointment at Violet Health, please make sure to review the documents below. Please contact us if you have any questions!