What is Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)?
“PrEP” stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. The word “prophylaxis” means to prevent or control the spread of an infection or disease. Pre-exposure prophylaxis is the use of antiretroviral (ARV) medication by HIV-negative individuals at high risk of HIV infection to reduce their risk.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) is a way for people who do not have HIV but who are at very high risk of getting HIV to prevent HIV infection by taking a pill every day or a shot every two months. When someone is exposed to HIV through sex or injection drug use, these medicines can work to keep the virus from establishing a permanent infection.
What is Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)?
PEP, in the context of HIV, stands for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a course of HIV medications taken after a possible exposure to the virus to prevent infection. It’s a time-sensitive intervention that needs to be started within 72 hours (3 days) of the potential exposure.