How PrEP and PEP Help Prevent HIV Infection?
HIV continues to be a major health concern across the world, but today we have powerful tools to prevent it. Two of the most effective methods are PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). These treatments have changed the way we approach HIV prevention by giving people safe, reliable, and science-backed protection.
In this blog, we will understand what PrEP and PEP are, how they work, who should take them, and why consulting an Infectious Disease Specialist like Dr. A Murali in Coimbatore ensures safe and effective HIV prevention.
Understanding PrEP: Protecting Yourself Before Exposure
PrEP is a preventive medicine taken before you are exposed to HIV. It works by building strong protection in your body that prevents the virus from multiplying if it enters your system. PrEP is usually taken as a once-daily tablet and is highly effective when taken regularly.
How PrEP Works?
PrEP contains medicines that stop HIV from establishing an infection in the body. When taken daily, it creates a protective shield in the blood, genital tissues, and rectal tissues. This means that even if you are exposed to HIV, the virus cannot easily infect your cells.
Who Should Consider PrEP?
PrEP is recommended for people who may have a higher chance of coming in contact with HIV. This includes:
- Individuals with multiple sexual partners
- People in relationships where one partner is HIV-positive
- Individuals who do not consistently use condoms
- People who inject drugs
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Individuals with recent sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
For people who fall under these categories, PrEP provides a strong and reliable method of staying protected.
Effectiveness of PrEP:
When taken daily, PrEP reduces the risk of HIV infection by more than 95%. It is one of the most effective preventive tools available today. Missing doses can reduce its effectiveness, so regular intake is very important.
Understanding PEP: Protection After Possible Exposure
Unlike PrEP, PEP is taken after a possible exposure to HIV. It is an emergency measure used when someone thinks they may have been exposed through sexual contact, needle sharing, or accidental injuries.
How PEP Works?
PEP is a combination of antiretroviral medicines taken for 28 days. It stops the virus from multiplying and spreading in the body. The key point is timing — PEP must be started as soon as possible.
When Should You Take PEP?
PEP is recommended when:
- You had unprotected sex with someone whose HIV status is unknown or positive
- A condom broke during sexual contact
- You shared needles
- You experienced sexual assault
- Healthcare workers had accidental needle-stick injuries
Timing Matters:
PEP must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of exposure. The earlier you start, the better the protection. After 72 hours, PEP becomes much less effective.
PrEP vs PEP: Understanding the Difference
While both PrEP and PEP help prevent HIV, they work in different situations.
- PrEP: Taken before exposure, regularly, for continuous protection
- PEP: Taken after exposure, only in emergencies
- PrEP is long-term prevention; PEP is short-term emergency treatment
- Both require medical supervision for proper dosage and safety
Knowing which one you need is important. An Infectious Disease Specialist can guide you based on your lifestyle, risk level, and medical conditions.
Safety and Side Effects:
Both PrEP and PEP are safe and well-studied. Most people experience little to no side effects. Some may have mild symptoms like headache, nausea, tiredness, or stomach discomfort, which usually go away in a few days.
It is important not to start PrEP or PEP on your own. A doctor must evaluate your kidney function, medical history, and HIV status before prescribing these medicines. This ensures safety and effectiveness.
Why Early Consultation Matters?
If you think you have been exposed to HIV, delaying treatment increases the risk of infection. Quick action protects your health. For those who regularly face exposure risk, starting PrEP early ensures long-term safety.
In Coimbatore, Dr. A Murali, an experienced Infectious Disease Specialist, offers expert guidance on PrEP and PEP. With more than 20 years of experience in treating HIV and infectious diseases, he provides accurate assessments, personalised prevention plans, and patient-friendly counselling.
How Dr. A Murali Helps in HIV Prevention?
At Sun Speciality Clinic, Dr. Murali provides:
- Screening and risk assessment
- PrEP and PEP prescriptions based on individual needs
- Safe monitoring and follow-up
- Counselling on safe practices and long-term prevention
- Complete support for HIV treatment and co-infection management
His expertise ensures that every patient receives reliable and confidential care.
Conclusion:
HIV prevention has become easier, stronger, and more accessible thanks to PrEP and PEP. These medicines offer powerful protection before and after exposure. PrEP helps you stay protected in the long term, while PEP works as an emergency shield when unexpected situations occur.
Awareness, timely action, and medical guidance are the keys to staying safe. If you think you need PrEP or PEP, or if you want personalised HIV prevention advice, consult Dr. A Murali at Sun Speciality Clinic in Coimbatore. Early prevention today can protect your health for years to come.