OVERVIEW

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) means taking medicine after possible exposure to HIV to prevent getting it. PEP must be started within 72 hours of possible exposure to HIV.

The sooner you start PEP, the better. Every hour counts. If you are prescribed PEP, you must take the medication every day for 28 days.

Is PEP for emergency situations?

• PEP is given after possible exposure to HIV.
• It is not a substitute for the regular use of other methods for preventing HIV infection.
• It is not the right choice for people who may be exposed to HIV frequently.
• If you are at ongoing risk for HIV, such as through repeated exposure, talk to your healthcare provider about PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).

Who can benefit from PEP?

• People who had condomless intercourse with an HIV partner or unknown HIV status.
• People who recently shared needles or had a needle-stick injury.
• People who have been sexually assaulted.
• People who had HIV exposure within 3 days (72 hours).

How effective is PEP?

• If taken within 72 hours of possible exposure, PEP is highly effective in preventing HIV infection. But to be safe, you should take other steps to protect your partners while you are taking PEP. This includes always using condoms with your sexual partners and not sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection implements.