In theory, when HIV enters the human body, it remains circulating free in the blood for several days (24-72 hours) prior to its insertion into body reservoirs (lymph nodes, brain, testicles, etc.) PEP is initiated with the intention of PREVENTING HIV from integrating itself into the body and setting up a chronic infection. This is NOT a morning-after-pill, but a carefully selected combination of three medications taken for a full MONTH. This concept is still under research and should not be considered a guarantee in the prevention of HIV infection.

If a risk situation was to occur, your partner should:

• Consult a physician as quickly as possible (ideally within 24 hours, and definitely before the 72 hour mark post-exposition). The earlier the better in maximizing the success of this intervention when medications are indicated;
• Ideally, the individual at risk should consult a physician experienced with the principle of PEP – and ideally you should assist your partner in obtaining all pertinent information regarding your health status (CD4 levels, viral load levels, any resistance information with respect to your virus and your current medications). All of this information will assist the physician in selecting the best PEP combination.

The physician will:

• Evaluate the degree of risk for HIV/other sexually transmitted infections;
• Baseline laboratory studies will be taken so as to evaluate the health status of your partner at the moment of the exposure/risk. When indicated, as mentioned above, a combination of antiretrovirals (not always the same as the ones you are taking) will be prescribed for a period of one month. Current recommendations suggest triple medication combinations for PEP of this sort;
• Schedule several follow-up visits to evaluate the tolerability of the selected medications, to rule out serious side effects and to evaluate the outcome of the PEP, at one month and 3 months post-exposure.

While not a guarantee, it is important to know that PEP exists, that there is something that can be done and that may serve to reduce the risk of transmission of HIV when a risk event occurs.