PrEP = prevention before exposure

PrEP is HIV prevention medication for people who do not have HIV and may benefit from ongoing protection. There are oral and injectable options; a clinician can help determine which is appropriate.

PEP = emergency prevention after exposure

PEP is time-sensitive. CDC recommends starting PEP as soon as possible and no later than 72 hours after a possible HIV exposure.

Examples of situations that may lead someone to ask about PEP include condom failure, a sexual exposure where HIV status is unknown or positive, or certain blood exposures.

Do not wait for symptoms.

PEP decisions are based on the exposure, not on whether you develop symptoms. If the exposure was within 72 hours, contact a healthcare provider or emergency department promptly.

Can the same clinic handle testing and prevention?

The Wellington provider linked from Get Tested PB offers HIV/STI testing as well as PrEP and PEP services.

Sources & medical references

Health information on Get Tested PB is written for general education and cross-checked against public-health sources. It is not individualized medical advice.

PrEP or PEP?

If you are not sure which term applies to your situation, compare them side by side.

PrEP vs PEP: what is the difference? →