Safer Sex

PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis)

PEP is a treatment which could help stop any individual that has been at risk of HIV transmission from becoming infected. This page will explain fully what PEP is, how it can be used, some of the risks associated with it, and where to access it.

PEP stands for Post Exposure Prophylaxis, and is a treatment to stop infection happening after an occasion where there is a chance that HIV transmission has occurred.

PEP is a combination of 2 or 3 anti-HIV drugs, much like the ones described on the HIV treatment page, in fact PEP is made up of the drugs that some people use as their anti-HIV therapy. These are used for about 4 weeks after the risky exposure to stop the HIV virus from living permanently in the body.

Because PEP is made up of the same anti-HIV drugs that some positive people use it also has the same rule and side effects. This means it will not be effective if it is not taken properly and if doses are missed. PEP can also cause the same side effects which include headaches, feeling sick, diarrhoea and vomiting. Because of this people who are taking PEP may need to take time of work or study.

It is important to remember that PEP does not ‘stop’ people from getting HIV but it does make infection less likely, some people who take PEP still sero-convert, or become HIV positive. It is also important to remember that if you are using PEP you should still use condoms for sex as it will not protect you from further risky exposures to HIV.

PEP should be taken as soon as possible after a risky exposure to HIV. The quicker the treatment is started the better chance that it will help stop infection. PEP can only be started up to 72 hrs after a risky exposure.

PEP can be accessed from Sexual Health Clinics and most A&E Departments. You will have to go through a process of assessment for PEP which can be confusing and difficult. This will mean doctors will ask you questions that you may feel uncomfortable about answering. Do not lie to them, the questions they are asking are used to assess your risk and suitability for PEP. If you need help to access PEP you can try contacting one of the support services listed on this site.

There are a lot of things to remember about PEP so we have tried to make it easier by putting the key points into short sentences. We hope this helps:

• PEP must be started as soon as possible and definitely within 72 hrs (3days)
• Taking PEP means tablets for 4 weeks, and the side effects can be nasty
• You are not guaranteed to receive PEP, doctors make that decision
• PEP may not stop you from sero-converting (becoming HIV positive)

If you need more information about HIV you can check out www.pep.chapsonline.org.uk.