💊 What is HIV PEP: PEP blocks the virus before it can take hold.
⏱️ The faster, the better: Start no later than 48 hours after the risk.
🏥 Safely available: In emergency outpatient clinics and HIV centres.
⚠️ Only against HIV: No protection against other STIs - testing remains important.
What is PEP?
PEP stands for Post-exposure prophylaxis - emergency treatment to a risk of HIV.
The medication prevents HIV from becoming established in the body.
Typical situations:
- The condom is broken
- You have had unprotected sex with someone whose HIV status you do not know.
- You have had contact with HIV-positive blood (e.g. needle stick, syringe exchange).
Important: The sooner you start, the greater the chance that PEP will work - after 48 hours at the latest!
When does PEP make sense?
PEP is not with every mishap necessary, but only if there was an actual HIV risk.
- you have had unprotected anal or vaginal sex with a person whose HIV status is unclear,
- your sex partner is HIV-positive and is not receiving treatment,
- you split a needle while using drugs,
- you have injured yourself in a medical environment.
If you are unsure whether PEP is necessary: Immediately call an emergency ambulance or a HIV focus practice to.
The experts will help you to correctly assess the risk.
Procedure and time frame
- Time slot: PEP must within 48 hours after the risk - the first 2 hours are ideal.
- Location: You get PEP in Emergency outpatient clinics, HIV focus practices or Hospitals.
- Procedure:
- Medical assessment of the risk
- Immediate first tablet dose
- Consumption over 28 days
- Follow-up checks for HIV and side effects
- Costs: In medical emergencies, the Health insurance the treatment.
Side effects and experiences
PEP is well tolerated, even if it sometimes has side effects. The most common are
- Nausea, headache, diarrhoea, tiredness
- Rarely sleep disorders or loss of appetite
These effects are usually mild and disappear after a few days. It is important to take the tablets Daily and reliable otherwise the protection is reduced.
Many people report that the first few days are challenging, but the feeling of having actively done something against HIV outweighs this. Counselling centres and doctors will support you if things get difficult.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about PEP
Best immediately. PEP only works reliably if it is applied within 48 hours starts - the first 2 hours are optimal.
PEP is available in Emergency outpatient clinics, HIV focus practices or larger Hospitals.
If there is a medical reason (e.g. actual risk), the health insurance company will cover the costs in full. Those with private insurance should enquire in advance. Without coverage, a PEP can cost several hundred euros.
Most people tolerate PEP well. Possible symptoms are mild nausea, headaches or diarrhoea. Drink plenty of water, eat regularly and take the tablets with a meal - this alleviates side effects.
- PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis): You take them before regularly to protect yourself against HIV.
- PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis): You take them after in, as an emergency measure after a risk.
Both contain similar active ingredients, but differ in timing and purpose.
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