STIs

PEP

Alsopost-exposure prophylaxisHIV PEPPEPSEemergency HIV medicationpost-exposure HIV treatment

Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.

Definition

PEP is a 28-day course of HIV medicine taken after a possible exposure to HIV to stop the virus from taking hold; it must be started as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours.

At a glance

  • PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis.
  • It is a 28-day course of HIV medicine.
  • It must be started as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of a possible exposure.
  • It is available from sexual health clinics and emergency departments.
  • Follow-up HIV testing is arranged after the course ends.

In detail

PEP is an emergency option, for example after a condom breaks with a partner of unknown or detectable HIV status, or after sexual assault. The sooner it is started the better it works, and it is not usually given after 72 hours.

It is available from sexual health clinics and emergency departments. A clinician will assess the situation, and follow-up HIV testing is arranged after the course ends.

In a sentence

  • The condom broke, so we went to the emergency department that night to ask about PEP.
  • The clinic explained the difference between PEP and PrEP.

Not to be confused with

  • PrEP

    PrEP is taken regularly before possible exposure; PEP is a one-off course afterwards.

  • Emergency contraception

    Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy and has no effect on HIV.

Common questions

What is the difference between PEP and PrEP?

PrEP is taken before possible exposure to HIV, as ongoing prevention. PEP is an emergency 28-day course started after a possible exposure, as soon as possible and ideally within 72 hours.

Where can I get PEP?

PEP is usually available from sexual health clinics and hospital emergency departments. A clinician will assess the situation, so it is best to go as soon as possible rather than wait.

Related terms

Sources

  1. HIV.govPost-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
  2. NHSHIV and AIDS: prevention
  3. Planned ParenthoodPEP