How Does PEP Work? And What Is It?
How Does PEP Work? And What Is It? Antiretroviral medications are prescribed for a brief period of time as part of PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) in order to stop the HIV virus from establishing a foothold in your body.
It must be begun within 72 hours (3 days) following an HIV infection for it to be effective. Every hour counts!
PEP should only be applied in dire situations. People who are frequently exposed to HIV shouldn't utilise it for an extended period of time.
What Indicates a Need for PEP?
PEP may be appropriate for you if you are HIV-negative or if you are unsure of your HIV status but think you may have been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours:
• During a sexual encounter with another individual (for example, you had a condom break with a partner of unknown HIV status or a partner with HIV who is not virally suppressed)
• By utilising shared syringes, needles, or other injecting tools,
• Through sexual assault Contact your doctor right away, or visit an emergency department or urgent care facility.