What is PEP?
- PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an emergency medication that is taken for 28 days to prevent HIV after a recent and possible exposure.
How does PEP work?
- PEP must be started within 72 hours of a possible exposure to HIV. The sooner, the better–Every hour counts!
- PEP works best when:
- It is taken right away
- You take the full 28-day course every day, as instructed.
- Do not stop taking PEP without talking to your doctor.
Who is PEP for?
- PEP can protect you in an emergency—for example:
- If you had anal or vaginal sex without a condom with someone who has or might have HIV
- PEP can also stop HIV if you were exposed while injecting drugs
How do I know if I need to take PEP?
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PEP can protect you in an emergency—for example:
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You had anal or vaginal sex without a condom with someone who is living with HIV or unknown HIV status.
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You had anal or vaginal sex and the condom broke with someone who is living with HIV or unknown HIV status.
- You shared a needle, syringe, or other injection drug equipment with someone who is living HIV or unknown HIV status.
- You experienced a sexual assault
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What else do I need to know about taking PEP?
- PEP protects people who are not living with HIV. You’ll have to take an HIV test before starting PEP.
- PEP can cause mild side effects, especially at the beginning of the treatment.
- When you finish PEP, you will take another HIV test to make sure that PEP worked
- Consider PrEP if you have had to take PEP more than once.
Where can I get PEP?
- If you think you were exposed to HIV within the last 72hours:
- During business hours: immediately contact one of the PrEP Centers ofExcellence.
- After business hours: Immediately go to a clinic, urgent care, or emergency room
- Please visit our “Get PEP Now” page for more information!
