PEP & PrEP for HIV Prevention: Complete, Trusted Guide by Specialists

Clear answers. Zero judgment. Proven protection.

A possible HIV exposure can bring fear and uncertainty. But today, medical science offers powerful ways to prevent HIV — after an exposure (PEP) and before an exposure (PrEP). This page gives you clear, accurate guidance from HIV specialists.

Step 1: Was My Exposure Risky?

You may have been at risk if any of the following occurred:

• Unprotected vaginal or anal sex
• Condom break or slip
• Partner’s HIV status unknown
• Contact of sexual fluids with eyes, mouth, or genitals
• Blood-to-blood contact or needlestick injury
• Sharing needles or injection equipment
• Forced or non-consensual encounter

If any apply, proceed immediately to the next step.

Step 2: Did the Exposure Happen Within 72 Hours?

PEP is time-sensitive and most effective within 72 hours. The sooner it’s started, the higher the protection. The medicines act fast to block HIV before it can multiply.

No need to stress about the “exact hour” — just begin within 72 hours. If unsure, speak to our doctors right away.

What Is PEP?

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a 28-day course of anti-HIV medicines that stop HIV from taking hold in your body. When started on time and taken correctly, it reduces risk by over 99%.

Endorsed by: WHO, CDC, NACO, EACS

Who Should Take PEP?

PEP is recommended for:

• Unprotected sex with a partner of unknown status
• Condom burst or slip
• Contact with a partner living with HIV
• Sexual assault survivors
• Healthcare workers exposed to blood
• Needle-sharing or accidental blood contact

If in doubt — get evaluated immediately.

Recommended PEP Regimen

PEP uses three antiretroviral (ARV) medicines for 28 days. These act at different stages of HIV’s life cycle to stop infection.

1. One Integrase Inhibitor (INSTI)

Common options: Dolutegravir (DTG) or Raltegravir (RAL)
Fast-acting and form the backbone of modern PEP.

2. Two NRTIs (Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors)

Common combinations include:
• Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) + Emtricitabine (FTC)
• Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF) + Emtricitabine (FTC)
• TDF + Lamivudine (3TC)

Why these? Potent, safe, WHO-approved, once-daily, and well tolerated.

Duration: 28 days — one tablet daily. Never skip a dose.

How PEP Changed HIV Prevention

PEP is one of the most powerful tools against HIV. It:

• Stops HIV after exposure
• Protects in emergencies
• Reduces new infections
• Provides safety in mixed-status relationships
• Offers rapid reassurance and control

How to Take PEP Correctly

• Start within 72 hours of exposure
• Take daily for 28 days
• Avoid alcohol during treatment
• Eat with the dose if you feel nausea
• Do not miss doses
• Complete all follow-up tests

Recommended Tests Before or During PEP

PEP should not be delayed for testing, but your doctor may request:

• HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C screening
• Kidney and liver function tests
• Pregnancy test (if applicable)

At DrSafeHands, testing is quick, confidential, and stress-free.

Follow-Up After Completing PEP

Your doctor will schedule HIV tests at:

• 4 weeks
• 12 weeks (final confirmation)

When followed correctly, PEP offers extremely high protection.

What Is PrEP?

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) protects you before exposure. It’s a once-daily tablet for ongoing HIV prevention, offering up to 99% risk reduction when taken consistently.

Best suited for:
• People with multiple partners
• MSM community
• Serodiscordant couples
• Individuals attending parties or unpredictable situations
• Anyone seeking reliable long-term protection

PEP vs PrEP: Quick Comparison

PEP: Taken after exposure • 28 days • Emergency use • Works within 72 hours
PrEP: Taken before exposure • Long-term • Preventive use • ~99% effective

Many start with PEP and continue with PrEP for lasting protection and peace of mind.

Possible Side Effects

Most users tolerate both well. Mild effects may include:

• Nausea or gastritis
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Mild sleep changes

These are temporary and do not reduce medicine effectiveness.

Why Choose DrSafeHands

• Experienced HIV specialists
• 100% confidential and judgment-free care
• Fast PEP evaluation and genuine medicines
• NABL-accredited labs & LGBTQ-friendly services
• Home medicine delivery
• 24×7 doctor support

Thousands trust us every year with their most private concerns.

Cost of PEP & PrEP

Prices vary by city and medicine type, but we ensure:

• Genuine, quality-assured medicines
• Affordable packages
• Doctor consultation included
• Same-day access when needed

When PEP May Not Be Required

PEP may not be necessary if:

• More than 72 hours have passed since exposure
• The contact carried no real risk (e.g., fluids on intact skin)

If uncertain, let our doctors guide you safely.

Your Next Step

👉 If exposure was within 72 hours: Start PEP immediately. Don’t delay — timing matters.
👉 If you seek long-term safety: Discuss PrEP with our specialists for sustained protection.

Final Reassurance

You are not alone. Millions face similar moments of uncertainty — but today, science offers powerful protection.

PEP shields you after exposure. PrEP protects you before exposure. DrSafeHands stands by you throughout.