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PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) prescription available online

If you've been exposed to HIV, PEP can help. Get a new prescription or refill of PEP from a board-certified doctor online.*

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About HIV PEP (HIV post-exposure prophylaxis)

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is medical care given to prevent HIV. It involves antiretroviral medication (ART) that you can start taking soon after you've been exposed to HIV, which lowers your chances of developing an HIV infection.

PEP is available only by prescription. It is usually a combination of Truvada (tenofovir-emtricitabine) and either Isentress (raltegravir) or Tivicay (dolutegravir).

PEP may be prescribed as a tablet. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

If you're prescribed PEP, be sure to complete the full course of the antiretroviral medication unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the antiretroviral may not prevent HIV infection.

PEP uses

Your PlushCare doctor may prescribe PEP for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.

HIV prevention

PEP is FDA-approved to help prevent infection after exposure to HIV. Exposure can happen when you've come into contact with certain bodily fluids from another person, including blood, semen, and vaginal fluid.

PEP is for emergency situations. It shouldn't take the place of proven ways to prevent HIV transmission, such as using condoms, taking PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and not sharing needles.

PEP side effects

The side effects associated with taking PEP are typically mild. Most PEP side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort.

PEP has some common side effects. They may include:

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Fatigue
Headache

Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

Allergic reaction
Fever
Lightheadedness

You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Minors at risk of potential exposure to HIV should be given PEP.

How to take PEP

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your PEP prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

PEP can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. If you were possibly exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, it's important to start PEP as soon as possible for it to work.

PEP requires taking several pills over the course of a few weeks. Typically, you'll need to take medication daily for at least 28 days (four weeks). Follow your doctor's instructions and take every pill as directed.

What to avoid while taking PEP

PEP has 210 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.

Possible drug interactions with PEP include:

Antacids containing polyvalent cations
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Potassium or iron supplements
St. John's Wort
Metformin

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking PEP. Alcohol can increase your risk of adverse effects, such as liver damage.

Medication alternatives to HIV PEP (Truvada + Tivicay or Isentress)

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another antiretroviral in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

Post-exposure prophylaxis HIV prevention

Biktarvy (bictegravir-emtricitabine-tenofovir alafenamide)
Descovy + Tivicay
Descovy + Isentress

PEP prescription FAQs

How much does PEP cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, a full course of of PEP (truvada + tivicay/isentress) costs between $600 and $2,500 without insurance. If you have insurance, depending on the reason you're prescribed PEP, you may qualify for free or low-cost medicines. You can also visit this website for further information on HIV PEP and other potential ways to save money on HIV PEP.

How can I refill my PEP prescription?

To refill your PEP prescription, book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor. After reviewing your symptoms, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.

Should I take PEP for 28 days?

Take PEP for the full 28-day course to minimize your risk of HIV unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Can I stop PEP if the source is negative?

If the source person tests negative for HIV, PEP can be stopped before 28 days. Talk to your doctor before stopping PEP.

Can you drink alcohol on PEP?

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking PEP. Alcohol can increase your risk of liver damage.

Who should not take PEP?

You should not take PEP if 72 hours have passed since your potential exposure to HIV. If you have continuous exposure to HIV, talk to your healthcare professional to see if pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is right for you after finishing the 28 days of PEP.

What happens if I miss a dose of PEP?

If you miss a dose of PEP, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens if I take too much PEP?

If you've taken too much PEP, contact your local poison control center or call your doctor.

How well does PEP work?

PEP is effective in preventing HIV infection when taken correctly, but it's not 100% effective. Research shows that PEP can reduce the risk of contracting HIV.

Should I take PEP?

You should take PEP if:

You may have been exposed to HIV during sex (for example, if the condom broke or you didn't use protection)
You shared needles to prepare or inject drugs
You had a workplace needle stick injury

PEP should be started within 72 hours to prevent HIV. Every hour counts.

Step 1

Book a PEP prescription request appointment.

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Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your PEP prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3

Pick up your PEP prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

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