Question
Is there anything else in addition to PEP I can take?
30 December 2021. Related: All topics, HIV transmission, PEP/PEPSE.
Dear All, I need help. I had sex with a guy who was HIV positive. I didn’t know, he informed me after 48 hours that he was HIV positive (he also didn’t know that he is positive). Unfortunately I started PEP dose 78 hours after because of late information. The hospital took my blood before stating PEP and it was negative, during PEP I have checked by rapid kit and it was also negative. I have completed my 28 days PEP course. I went back to hospital and again they took my blood but haven’t got my result. Is there any other medicine which I should take or what else should I do?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
PEP isn’t effective after 72 hours. At this point if HIV is present the infection is already established. PEP is not a guarantee and regardless at what point it is started it is not sure to prevent infection.
It is good that you have been testing negative however this is before a test could pick up an infection. The test prior to PEP you had would have established if you had HIV from another exposure. Testing while on PEP is not accurate as PEP can ‘hide’ HIV in the body and you will not know until you have finished with PEP. A test will not be conclusive until at least 4 weeks after you have finished this course.
There are no other medicines you can take that will improve PEP working. PEP is the only medication known to prevent infection after a high risk. While this time is stressful you should note that HIV is not common to transmit. A one chance exposure is very rare to result in someone getting HIV. This guide will help you establish your own risk based on the type of sex you had.
If you have another question please ask,
Josh.
Hi Noluvuyo, unfortunately PEP started after 72 hours is not effective. There is not a reason to continue with your course of PEP. As this was a single exposure, transmission of HIV is rare in this instance. It would be considered low risk. Do you know if your partner was taking any medication? If they were it is possible they could not transmit HIV. This is a link that discusses feelings of fear and anxiety after a potential exposure: https://i-base.info/guides/testing/hiv-testing-feelings-of-fear-anxiety-and-guilt
Hi am very worried I had sex with someone who is hiv positive, the condom bust we stopped same the condom was still on him it broke on top only. Because we are in Africa in rural areas I got Pep after 72hrs what are the chances of me being infected w