What is PEP?

What is PEP?
  • PEP (Post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency medicine you take right after you are exposed to HIV
  • If you are HIV-negative, PEP can stop HIV from infecting your body
How does PEP work?
  • PEP must be started within 72 hours of exposure
  • PEP works best when:
    • It is taken right away
    • You take the full 28-day course
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?
  • If you think you were exposed to HIV, immediately go to a clinic or emergency room and ask for PEP
  • Do not stop taking PEP without talking to your doctor
What else do I need to know about taking PEP?
  • PEP works for people who are HIV negative. You’ll need to take an HIV test before starting PEP
  • PEP can cause mild side effects, especially at the beginning of the treatments
  • When you finish PEP you will take another HIV test to make sure that PEP worked
Where can I get PEP?

Please visit our “Get PEP Now” page for more information!