Post-exposure prophylaxis after sexual exposure (PEPSE) is antiretroviral treatment (ART) used to prevent HIV infection after a recent risk of exposure to the virus.
- PEPSE is an emergency treatment to be used as a last resort after a potential exposure to HIV.
- It needs to be taken as soon as possible after exposure and within 72 hours at the latest.
- The course of medication needs to be taken for four weeks.
- It has a high success rate but is not guaranteed to work.
- Your risk of infection will be assessed before PEPSE is prescribed to ensure it is suitable for you.
- You will be offered an HIV test to check you are not already infected as well as tests to check your liver and kidney function.
- You will also be offered tests for other such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis.
- You may also be offered vaccination against hepatitis B infection.
If you think you need PEPSE do not delay in getting help, as every hour counts.
Call 01482 336370/336358 and you will be fast-tracked through to the service. If it is outside of clinic opening hours please go to your nearest Accident & Emergency Department