PEP: How to prevent HIV infection after possible exposure

If you get exposed to HIV, then PEP can help control the virus from spreading and reduce the chances of getting HIV. The full form of PEP is Post Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a pill that should be taken as soon as you come in contact with HIV. The window to start taking the pill is within three days or 72 hours of HIV exposure. The faster you start the pill, the better the chances you have of not getting HIV.

The pills contain antiretroviral medications that help with stopping the spread of HIV throughout the body. The PEP dosage is for at least 28 days, and the pill needs to be taken 1 to 2 times every day.

What is PEP best for?

PEP is the best option only during emergencies where other options such as condoms won’t work in preventing HIV. In situations such as having unprotected intercourse or sharing needles with someone who happens to have HIV, PEP needs to be taken within 72 hours to reduce the chances of getting HIV.

PEP will only able to work if it is taken within the said time frame, so as soon as you get exposed to HIV, without wasting time, start on PEP pills for the next 28 days.

When to use PEP

PEP is not a one-time-only pill; it is more like a daily routine for at least four weeks, so make sure not to miss even a single dose because proper medication levels are needed to prevent the virus. It does not guarantee 100 percent protection from it, but it can be effective if taken on time. To be safe, even when consuming the pill, it is important to use protection during sexual intercourse and not share needles with others.

If you start having rashes get a fever within 72 hours of taking the pill, contact your doctor because these can be signs of having the beginning stages of HIV.

Side effects

PEP’s side effects are not too serious or dangerous and can be treated. The symptoms include feeling tired and having stomach aches. If the side effects make you very uncomfortable, reach out to your doctor to find a solution.

There can be situations where PEP does not work, even after taking it right and finishing the entire medication course. You may get feverish and have rashes, which are the beginning symptoms of HIV. Get yourself tested and start medications such as Tudofovir, which has the right combination of antiretroviral agents for treating HIV infections.