PEP stands for post exposure prophylaxis, which is a 28 day course of medication taken to reduce the risk of becoming infected with HIV, after definite or probable exposure.
When should PEP be taken?
The need to take PEP depends on the chance that the person you had sex with is HIV positive, the type of sex and whether or not you used condoms. Consideration should also be given to other factors, such as whether you had any exposure to blood and sexual assault.
PEP can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after sexual exposure but is more likely to be effective within 24 hours (1 day).
How to access PEP
Please contact a sexual health clinic to seek urgent advice if you think you may have been exposed to HIV. If you require PEP when local sexual health services are closed, please go to the nearest A&E department.
All A&E departments in the north east can supply five days of PEP and arrange for you to be seen in the nearest sexual health centre for follow up.
British Association for Sexual Health and HIV
