What is PrEP?

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), if PEP medication is taken consistently and correctly, it can reduce the risk of HIV by more than 80%.

Common side effects of PEP include: • Nausea • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Headache These side effects usually will stop within a few days of starting PEP medication. However, in rare cases, more serious side effects such as liver damage or allergic reactions can occur. For information, jaundice is also an indication of liver damage. If you experience any of these symptoms, please visit your nearest clinic.

During the 28 days of taking PEP medication, it is important to avoid any risk of HIV exposure. Therefore, you should practice safe sex and avoid contact with other people's body fluids.

Although PrEP medication can reduce the risk of HIV, it is important to start PEP medication as soon as possible if you are at risk of exposure.

Can I take a double dose of PEP if I miss one?​ You should adhere to the recommended dose of PEP and finish all PEP medication for 28 days. Taking more PEP drugs may be dangerous and increase the risk of negative effects.

PEP medication is a short-term emergency treatment taken after exposure to HIV, while PrEP medication is a long-term treatment taken to prevent HIV. PEP is usually recommended for episodic exposure, while PrEP is recommended for chronic exposure.

Chronic exposure usually refers to situations where you are at risk of exposure to HIV on an ongoing basis, such as if you have a partner with HIV or work in a job where you may be frequently exposed to the virus. Episodic exposure, on the other hand, usually refers to one-time or occasional exposure, such as unprotected sex with an unfamiliar partner.