Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is for emergency situations only. If there is a known or suspected exposure to HIV, PEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) from the exposure. When prescribed PEP, HIV medications will be taken every day for 28 days. It is important to continue use of other HIV prevention methods while taking PEP, such as using condoms during sex.
PEP is not a substitute for regular HIV prevention methods and must be started within 72 hours from exposure. The sooner PEP is started after the exposure, the more likely it can prevent HIV infection. If started after 72 hours of exposure, it will most likely not prevent HIV infection.
Examples of potential HIV exposure may include:
- exposure during sex
- sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs
- sexual assault
- possible exposure at work
