How does PEP work?
PEP can prevent HIV after you’ve been exposed to the virus.
PEP is medication that you take to prevent HIV infection after you think you may have been exposed to the virus through unprotected sex or a contaminated needle.
PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis.
Do you think you need PEP? Here’s how to get PEP in Toronto.
When should I take PEP?
PEP must be taken within 72 hours of exposure to HIV, and ideally sooner — within 24 to 48 hours — for maximum effectiveness against HIV infection.
PEP can be taken by everyone, regardless of gender.
The sooner you start PEP, the more effective the treatment.
PEP is not effective when taken after 72 hours after exposure.
There are different medications for PEP. Depending on what type of exposure you may have experienced, you will be prescribed one or more drugs to be taken every day, for 28 days.
If you've been on PEP at least once in the last year, think about starting PrEP to prevent HIV infection more proactively.
What’s the difference between PEP & PrEP?
PEP stands for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.
PEP is medication you take to prevent HIV after you think you may have been exposed to the virus, within 72 hours, and sooner (within 24 to 48 hours) for maximum effectiveness. You will need to take PEP every day for about a month to help prevent HIV infection.
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis.
Truvada, or Generic Truvada is prescribed for PrEP. It is a pill you take once a day, every day, to prevent HIV infection. Research suggests that taking PrEP is 92% to 98% effective when taken as prescribed.