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About PrEP and PEP

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) are medicines that reduce your chances of getting HIV.

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the cells that help us fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

What is PEP?

PEP, or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a way to prevent HIV infection after potential exposure to the virus. This could happen through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or other situations where you may have come into contact with HIV. PEP involves taking medication for 28 days and is most effective when started within 72 hours after exposure. If you think you might have been exposed to HIV, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

What is PrEP?

PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a daily medication for people who are at risk of contracting HIV. When taken consistently, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from unprotected sex, sharing needles, or other situations where you may come into contact with HIV. It’s a proactive way to protect your health and is recommended for those with partners who are HIV-positive or if you engage in behaviors that increase your risk.

What are other ways to prevent HIV?

There are several ways to reduce your risk of getting HIV.

  • Use Condoms: using condoms during sex can help prevent the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Get Tested: Knowing your HIV status and encouraging your partner to get tested can help protect both of you.

How do these medicines work?

PrEP and PEP medications work by stopping HIV from replicating in the body.

How well does PrEP work?

PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken correctly and consistently. PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sharing needles or injection equipment by about 74%. PrEP is less effective if not taken as prescribed, so make sure to follow your doctor or pharmacist’s directions.

How well does PEP work?

PEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV by about 80% when taken correctly and consistently. The sooner you start PEP, the better it works. PEP is less effective if not taken as prescribed, so make sure to follow your doctor or pharmacist’s directions. While taking PEP, it is important to keep using other HIV prevention methods, like condoms and only using new, sterile needles and syringes if injecting drugs.

What should I expect while taking PrEP or PEP?

Some people may have side effects when taking PrEP or PEP, like diarrhea, nausea, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. These side effects usually go away over time. If you have side effects that are severe or do not go away, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

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