Post-Exposure Prophylaxis commonly referred to as PEP, is a vital preventive measure for individuals who may have been exposed to HIV. While it can be a lifeline in preventing HIV infection, one of the critical questions people have is, “How long do you need to take PEP?” In this article, we will explore the duration of PEP treatment, its effectiveness, and what you need to know if you find yourself in a situation where PEP may be necessary.
How Do You Know If You Need PEP?
Recent High-Risk Exposure: The most common situation in which PEP is recommended is after recent high-risk exposure to HIV. High-risk activities include unprotected sexual intercourse with a partner whose HIV status is unknown or positive, sharing needles or drug equipment, and occupational exposure (e.g., healthcare workers accidentally exposed to contaminated blood).
Timing is Critical: PEP should ideally be initiated as soon as possible after potential exposure, preferably within 72 hours (3 days) but certainly within 36 hours for the best effectiveness. The sooner you start PEP, the more likely it is to prevent HIV infection.
