PEP (post exposure prophylaxis) is a 4-week course of treatment that may prevent HIV infection if you've been exposed to the virus. Treatment must commence within 3 days of the risk incident - the sooner, the better. PEP can be obtained by phoning your nearest Sexual Health Service for an appointment, or attending a Hospital Emergency Department.
Any action that allows potentially HIV-infected body fluids, such as blood or semen, to enter into your bloodstream means you may have been exposed to HIV. For example, from sharing injecting equipment or having unprotected sex with somebody who may be HIV positive.
Taking PEP usually involves a 4-week course of generally 2 or sometimes 3 different anti-HIV drugs. For PEP to work, you need to start taking them within 3 days (72 hours) after an exposure, and continue to take them for the entire 28 days, You will also have blood taken to check for blood borne viruses (eg. HIV, Hepatitis B & C) and measure any effects from taking PEP. You will be asked to return in 4 weeks, 3 months and 6 months to repeat these tests. You will also be offered the option of free and confidential counselling.
Evidence suggests that taking PEP can prevent HIV, but this is not yet proven in the case of sexual or injecting exposures. Taking PEP is not a guarantee that you won't contract HIV. A small number of people who have taken PEP have contracted HIV. Safe sex and safe injecting are still the best way to avoid HIV.
While some people don't experience side effects from taking PEP, most people will have mild to moderate side effects, which may include nausea, rash, headaches and fatigue. Serious side effects are rare, and may include liver problems, pancreatitis, kidney stones and severe allergy. Your doctor will provide information on side effects and you should also read the information provided with the drugs.
While taking PEP, and until final tests confirm a HIV negative status, safe sex and safe injecting need to be practiced, and blood or semen should not be donated.
For more information, phone the PEP Hotline on 1800 737 669.