Question
Is there a benefit to taking PEP for more than 28 days?
15 November 2021. Related: All topics.
Can I take PEP for more than 28 days to get the best results?
Answer
Hi Kennedy, how are you?
Thanks for the question. There is no data to support that taking PEP for any longer than 28 days is beneficial. In exceptional circumstances the course may be extended, but does require very specific criteria to be met and consultation with an HIV specialist.
Taking PEP every day for the 28 day course is what minimizes your risk most. This page will explain how best to use PEP for the best results.
If you have any more questions feel free to ask.
Josh
Hi Ndina, do these pills have an expiration date on them? If they do and they are in date they are safe to take. If they don’t/are expired, they can still be used but they may not be as effective.
I was given a full bottle of pep on 3rd november 2022,i kept the extra pill.i got expossed again in 14th january 2023,is it safe to continue with the last years pills i kept
Hi Chris, how many days into your course of PEP? It is unlikely that missing one days dose is going to change how effective PEP is.
Hi i missed my pep for a day and continued the next day am in danger
Hi Justice, after PEP you need to wait 6 weeks before you can test. This will be with a 4th generation antigen/antibody test and will be conclusive. From 28 days you can do this test but it will only be 95% accurate.
Pep has been finished on the 24 days is it still ok
Hi Pete, it is okay to stop when your current PEP finishes.
Hello, I think I’ve been exposed on the 24th day of taking PEP. Should I continue for another 30days or I should just finish at 28th day and stop?
Hi Zach, someone taking PEP is unlikely to be a risk. This is because (i) the PEP is liekly to mean they are still negative, and (ii) the PEP would control any virus while they are being taken.
Can some one taking PEP infect his or her sexual partner who is HIV negative?