HIV PEP
PEP emergency treatment for HIV is available after unprotected anal or vaginal sex. To be effective, the treatment must be provided within a matter of hours.
What is PEP?
PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis and is an emergency medical treatment to prevent HIV infection after a risk situation. It lasts four weeks and is prescribed by a doctor. There are strict guidelines for taking the drug.
The PEP emergency treatment consists of three active ingredients, while PrEP consists of only two of these active ingredients. It is therefore not possible to do PEP with the PrEP drug alone.
Medical supervision is necessary to assess the risks and side effects of PEP and to carry out further tests and examinations in advance.
Do I need PEP?
If you have been at risk for HIV, you can prevent HIV infection by starting emergency medical treatment (PEP) immediately. PEP must be started immediately; 48 hours after the risk, PEP is no longer possible.
Why immediately?
The sooner the PEP treatment begins, the more effective it will be. Even just six to eight hours after the risk situation, the chances of success decrease. After 48 hours, it will no longer make sense to begin PEP treatment. It is therefore vital to act quickly.
Where can I get PEP?
In every hospital. In case of emergency, do not hesitate to go directly to the emergency department of the nearest hospital. After all, a possible HIV risk is an emergency – even abroad.
How much does PEP cost?
The costs are covered by the compulsory health insurance. If going abroad: obtain the emergency contact number from your health insurance provider before your trip.