What is the difference between PrEP and PEP?

 

Pre-exposure prophylaxis is also known as PrEP. It is an HIV prevention medication in which HIV-negative people take an oral pill once a day before coming into contact with HIV. This helps to reduce their risk of HIV infection. The drug must be taken for at least 7 days to reach optimal levels of protection against HIV.

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This contrasts post-exposure prophylaxis also known as PEP. PEP is an HIV prevention strategy in which HIV-negative people take anti-HIV medications after coming into contact with HIV to reduce their risk of HIV infection. PEP must be started within 72 hours after HIV exposure.

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To learn more about PrEP, check out:

https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/hiv-prevention/using-hiv-medication-to-reduce-risk/pre-exposure-prophylaxis

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To learn more about PEP, check out these sites:

https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/hiv-prevention/using-hiv-medication-to-reduce-risk/post-exposure-prophylaxis
 

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