24.11.2020

PEP – medication for post-HIV exposure

Post-Exposure Prophylaxisis (=PEP) is an effective medication for the prevention of HIV taken within 72 hours after possible exposure. The medication is used when a person has had a risk of getting HIV.

When do I need PEP?

If you don’t know your sex partner’s HIV status or whether they are on effective HIV medication and you did not use a condom, the following sexual situations are considered high risk in relation to HIV exposure:

  • Anal sex without a condom in sex between men.
  • Vaginal and anal intercourse without a condom with a person from a high prevalence country (for example parts of sub-Saharan Africa)
  • Vaginal or anal intercourse without a condom with a person selling or buying sex.
  • Vaginal or anal intercourse without a condom with a person who injects drugs and has a migrant background.
  • Vaginal or anal intercourse without a condom with a person living with HIV who is not on HIV medication.

Where can I get PEP?

PEP -medication is prescribed by a doctor. If you think you have been exposed to HIV contact your Health Care Station as soon as possible. Keep in mind that medication should be started within 72 hours of exposure. Before medication is initiated you will be tested for HIV. The medication will be taken over the course of 4 weeks. An HIV test will be conducted after the end of the medication period and after four months. Read more about PEP from here.