What is PEP?
Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a short course of antiretroviral drugs that can be used to prevent someone who has been exposed to HIV from becoming infected. A course of PEP needs to be started as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after exposure. PEP is generally administered following an instance of suspected sexual or occupational exposure to HIV.
A course of PEP is typically a month long and can cause serious side-effects including persistent headaches, nausea and diarrhoea. Just like the antiretroviral drugs taken by people living with HIV, a course of PEP must also be strictly adhered to or the risk of developing drug-resistant HIV infection significantly increases.
Before PEP can be prescribed, medical staff are required to carefully evaluate the risk of exposure to HIV having taken place. More information about this process can be found on our Who is eligible for PEP? page.
In Jersey, PEP starter packs are available 24 hours a day from the General Hospital’s Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department and from the Sexual Health Clinic during normal opening hours.
Anyone who has been, or may have been exposed to HIV, is advised to seek immediate medical attention. PEP needs to be started as soon as possible to have the best chance of preventing the virus taking hold.
Although PEP can be highly effective if taken promptly, it should not be considered as an alternative to safer sex practices.
Last updated 2010