PEP stands for Post Exposure Prophylaxis. A group of medications known as PEP can be taken to lower your chance of developing HIV as soon as you have been exposed to it. To be successful, PEP must be initiated within 72 hours, or three days, of your HIV encounter. The earlier you begin the better because every hour counts.
You take PEP 1-2 times day for at least 28 days. The medications used in PEP are referred to as antiretroviral medications (ART). These medications work by halting the transmission of HIV inside your body.
Who May Utilize PEP?
PEP should be used by anyone who may have recently been exposed to HIV. PEP may be appropriate for you if:
- You either didn't use a condom during sexual contact with a person who might have HIV or the condom malfunctioned.
- You experienced sexual assault.
- You might have shared items or needles with an HIV-positive person (such as cotton, cookware, or water).
If you were exposed to HIV within the last three days and believe you require PEP, speak with a nurse or doctor right away, or get straight to the emergency room. Time management is crucial. After being exposed to HIV, PEP must be used as soon as possible in order to be successful.
In times of need, use PEP. It cannot replace tried-and-true, continuing HIV prevention strategies like condom use, taking PrEP (a medication that lowers your risk of contracting HIV) daily, and refraining from sharing needles. A nurse or doctor can provide you with more information on PrEP if you are aware that you may be exposed to HIV frequently (for example, if you have a partner or partners who may be HIV-positive).
Go to the doctor or the emergency room as soon as you can if you are a member of the medical profession and believe you may have been exposed to HIV at work. After that, tell your boss what happened. Despite the rarity of HIV transmission in healthcare settings, there are precautions you may take and safety equipment you can use to reduce your risk of contracting HIV while providing care for patients.
What occurs when I consume my PEP dose?
After finishing PEP, you must go see your nurse or doctor for follow-up exams. A second HIV test is carried out 4-6 weeks after the initial HIV exposure, followed by a third test three months later. Your doctor might advise an additional HIV test six months later, depending on your circumstances.
These additional tests are necessary to confirm the efficacy of PEP. Use condoms when having sex, don't share needles or other materials, and keep protecting yourself and others from HIV while doing so.
Dr. Raina’s Safe Hands Clinic
Dr. Vinod Raina HIV Doctors in Dilshad Garden
Contact Us-9136363692 | 9871605858
Address: — Saket E-34, Ekta Apartments near
Malviya Nagar Metro Station Gate No-4 New Delhi-110017
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