What is PEP and when should I take it?

PEP is the abbreviation for post-exposure prophylaxis. This is an emergency medical treatment that can prevent HIV infection after a risk contact. The treatment lasts four weeks and is administered under medical supervision. There are clear medical guidelines for taking it.

PEP consists of three different active substances. This distinguishes it from PrEP, which only contains two of these drugs. It is therefore not possible to simply replace PEP with PrEP medication.

The treatment must be carried out by a medical specialist in order to assess possible side effects and risks and to carry out important examinations and tests in advance.

The earlier PEP is started, the more effective it is. The chance of success decreases after just 6 to 8 hours - after 48 hours the treatment is usually no longer effective. It is therefore important to act quickly.

If you are at risk of contracting HIV, you should go to a hospital emergency room immediately - regardless of whether you are in Switzerland or abroad.

You can find more information at: https://aids.ch/safer-sex/schuetzen/hiv-pep/