Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency medicine for people who are HIV-negative and may have been exposed to HIV. If you think you were exposed to HIV, call the NYC PEP hotline at 844-3-PEPNYC (844-373-7692), or go immediately to a clinic or emergency room and ask for PEP.
PEP: The Basics
How does PEP stop HIV?
PEP contains some of the same medicines that people with HIV take to stay healthy. If you are exposed to HIV, it takes a few days for an HIV infection to take hold in your body. As soon as you start PEP, these medicines begin to stop the virus from multiplying. As you continue taking PEP for the full 28-days, cells with HIV die and the virus stops spreading to the rest of your body.
How do I know if I need PEP?
If you are HIV-negative, PEP can protect you if you had anal or vaginal sex without a condom (or your condom broke) with someone who has HIV or may have HIV. PEP can stop HIV if you were the victim of sexual assault. PEP can also stop HIV if you were exposed while injecting drugs.
You may be at higher risk of HIV infection if you were the receptive (or 'bottom') partner in anal or vaginal sex (if you had a partner's penis in your anus or vagina). Receptive partners have a greater chance of exposure to HIV through semen or blood.
PEP is NOT usually recommended after sex that has a lower risk of spreading HIV, like oral sex. If you are unsure whether you are at risk of HIV infection, ask a doctor.
PEP is only meant to be used for a one-time exposure to HIV. If you often worry about being exposed to HIV, ask your doctor about PrEP - a daily pill that helps prevent HIV.
How do I take PEP?
PEP is prescribed by a doctor or nurse. You should take PEP exactly as prescribed.
You should begin PEP within 36 hours but not beyond 72 hours after a potential exposure to HIV.
When you start PEP, you may be given a 'starter pack' with a few days' supply of pills. You may have to fill a prescription for the rest of the 28 days. To avoid any interruption to PEP, fill your prescription as soon as possible and let the prescribing clinic know if you have trouble getting your pills for any reason.
PEP is much more effective at stopping HIV if you take all the pills for the full 28 days. It is very important never to skip a dose. It is best to take your pills at the same time every day. If you keep missing doses, ask your health care provider about ways to stay on track.
PEP involves several steps:
See A User's Guide to PEP for additional tips on how to take PEP.
Is PEP safe? What are the side effects?
PEP is safe. Emergency PEP has been used for many years to stop HIV in people who were accidentally exposed while at work.
PEP can cause mild side effects, including upset stomach and headaches, especially at the beginning of treatment. These symptoms often get better or go away after the first week of taking PEP.
If side effects are bothering you, tell your health care provider right away. There may be ways to help you feel better. Do not stop taking PEP before talking to your provider.
How well does PEP work?
In one study of healthcare workers who were accidentally exposed to HIV, PEP reduced the rate of infection by 80%. However, PEP is not 100% effective, but if you take PEP immediately after an exposure and for the full 28 days, it often prevents HIV infection.
If I take PEP, do I still have to use condoms?
PEP does not provide full protection against HIV. Condoms give you and your partners additional protection, even while on PEP. Condoms also protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy.
PEP is for emergency situations. If you worry about regular exposure to HIV through sex or while injecting drugs, PrEP may be a better option for you.
Where Can I Get PEP in New York City?
Clinics with experience providing PEP are all over New York City. You can find the locations of these clinics by visiting Where to get PrEP and PEP.
To get started on PEP right away, call the NYC PEP Hotline at (844) 3-PEPNYC (844-373-7692). The Hotline is available 24/7 and can connect you with a clinic that has expertise in providing PEP. If calling after-hours, the Hotline can help you get a PEP starter pack through a pharmacy and connect you with a clinic for the rest of PEP.
How do I pay for PEP?
In New York State, PEP is covered by Medicaid and many private health insurance and prescription plans. Call 311 for help getting Medicaid or low-cost insurance.
If you have no health insurance, you may receive financial assistance for PEP through these clinics in New York City.
There are also patient assistance programs to help uninsured patients pay for PEP. Your medical provider can help you apply.
If you are the victim of sexual assault in New York State, financial support for PEP is available. Call (800) 247-8035.
How else can I stay HIV-negative?
Provider Information
For PrEP and PEP resources for healthcare professionals in New York City, visit Information for Providers.