PEP

PEP for HIV Prevention Services

Urgent HIV Prevention When You Need It Most

At Kelly M. Farrow, Family Health Nurse Practitioner P.C., your health and safety are our top priorities. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a critical emergency medication regimen that can help prevent HIV infection after potential exposure. If you believe you’ve been exposed to HIV, acting quickly is essential—PEP must be started within 72 hours for maximum effectiveness. For after hours care, we strongly recommend people access care through an emergency room or local urgent care.

What Is PEP?

PEP involves taking a 28-day course of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection after a potential exposure. PEP is not a substitute for routine prevention methods like PrEP or condoms but is a life-saving option for emergency situations.

When Is PEP Recommended?

PEP may be appropriate if you have been exposed to HIV through:

Unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, or oral).
Condom breakage during sex.
Sexual assault.
Sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment.
Please note: For work-related exposures, we recommend that you consult your employer's recommended healthcare provider. Our practice does not handle workers' compensation cases.

Our PEP Services

We provide fast, confidential care to ensure you get the treatment you need as soon as possible.

1. Emergency Consultation

Immediate assessment of your exposure risk.
Guidance on starting PEP quickly and effectively.

2. HIV Testing

Rapid testing to confirm your HIV-negative status before beginning treatment.
Additional screenings for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and baseline labs.

3. PEP Medication

On-site or same-day prescriptions for a 28-day medication regimen.
Instructions for taking PEP and managing potential side effects.

4. Follow-Up Care

Support throughout your 28-day treatment course.
Routine follow-up testing to confirm your HIV-negative status after completing PEP.

5. Insurance & Financial Assistance

Help navigating insurance coverage.
Access to financial aid programs to cover the cost of PEP medications if needed.

Why Choose Us for PEP?

Rapid Response: We prioritize PEP cases to ensure timely care when it matters most.
Expert Care: Our providers specialize in HIV prevention and stay up to date with the latest guidelines.
Compassionate Support: We understand this can be a stressful time and provide nonjudgmental, supportive care to address your concerns.

Don’t Wait—Time Is Critical

PEP is most effective when started as soon as possible after exposure, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, contact us immediately to begin treatment.

Contact us now to get the care you need without delay. Call or Text 585-386-3860. For after hours care, we strongly recommend people access care through an emergency room or local urgent care to avoid delay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PEP?

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency treatment to prevent HIV infection after a potential exposure. It involves taking antiretroviral medications for 28 days and must be started within 72 hours of exposure to be effective, with the sooner, the better.

Who should consider taking PEP?

PEP is recommended for individuals who may have been exposed to HIV through:

Unprotected sex or condom failure during sex.
Sexual assault.
Sharing needles or injection drug equipment.
Occupational exposure (e.g., needlestick injuries in healthcare settings).

How does PEP work?

PEP involves a combination of antiretroviral medications that prevent HIV from replicating and establishing an infection in the body after exposure. Timely administration is critical for success.

What medications are used for PEP?

PEP typically involves a combination of two or three antiretroviral medications, such as:

Single tablet regimen: Biktarvy® (tenofovir alafenamide 25mg/emtricitabine 200mg/bictegravir 50mg)
Truvada® (tenofovir/emtricitabine)- 1 tablet by mouth daily. Usually paired with one of the below options:
- Tivicay® (dolutegravir): 50mg by mouth once per day
- Isentress® (raltegravir): 600mg by mouth twice per day

When should PEP be started?

PEP must be initiated as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours after a potential HIV exposure. The effectiveness decreases significantly after this window.

Is PEP safe?

PEP is generally safe and well-tolerated. Some individuals may experience mild side effects such as nausea, headaches, or fatigue, which typically resolve after treatment is completed. Serious side effects are rare and can be managed with close monitoring by a healthcare provider.

How do I access PEP?

PEP is available at:

Emergency rooms and urgent care clinics.
Sexual health clinics.
Primary care providers with experience in HIV prevention.

If you need PEP, contact a healthcare provider immediately or visit an emergency care facility.

Does insurance cover PEP?

Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover PEP. Assistance programs are also available for individuals without insurance to help with the cost of treatment.

Does PEP replace other prevention methods?

No, PEP is for emergency use only and is not a substitute for regular HIV prevention strategies such as PrEP, condoms, or harm reduction for injection drug use.

Can PEP fail?

While PEP is highly effective when taken correctly and started within 72 hours, no prevention method is 100% guaranteed. Adherence to the full 28-day medication regimen is essential to maximize effectiveness.

Where can I learn more or access PEP?

If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, contact us immediately for a consultation. Timely treatment is crucial, and our team is here to provide the care and support you need.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – PEP Basics.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services – HIV.gov: PEP Information.
World Health Organization (WHO) – Guidelines on PEP for HIV Prevention.
American Academy of HIV Medicine – PEP Guidelines.
NYS Department of Health- AIDS Institute- PEP Guidelines.

PEP

​PEP for HIV Prevention Services