PEP vs PrEP: Which One Do You Need?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis and post-exposure prophylaxis -- or PrEP and PEP -- are two of the most important tools available for preventing HIV transmission and stopping HIV infection in its tracks. But these two medications serve very different purposes in the fight for HIV prevention.

Knowing the difference between PrEP and PEP can mean the difference between becoming infected or staying protected after HIV exposure. Do you know which one you might need?

At PrEP2Me, we want our patients to be educated and informed about their options for HIV prevention. That’s why we make PrEP and PEP as accessible as possible. By receiving your PrEP prescription from us online, you can be sure that you’re getting the medication you need quickly and discreetly.

So, what are PrEP and PEP? Let's take a look:

What is PrEP?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It’s a medication taken to prevent HIV transmission and infection before one becomes exposed. In order to start PrEP, you must first test negative for HIV.

When taken consistently, PrEP can reduce your HIV risk by 99%. PrEP must be taken daily and is available with a prescription. It’s especially important for people who are at high risk of contracting HIV during sex, such as men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, and people with HIV-positive partners.

What is PEP?

PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis. It’s a short course of HIV medications prescribed to people who have been exposed to the virus. Unlike PrEP, which is designed for preventing HIV infection, PEP is taken after HIV exposure, not before.

PEP must be started within 72 hours after potential exposure and typically lasts for 28 days or longer. It can help reduce the risk of HIV transmission by up to 80%.

When Do I Need PrEP?

PrEP is for people who want to reduce their risk of HIV infection and are at a high risk of contracting HIV. This includes anyone who has had unprotected sex, shared needles, or engaged in any other activities that could potentially lead to HIV transmission.

If you're at risk for HIV frequently, PrEP can be an important part of your plan to prevent HIV infection. PrEP is proven to reduce the risk of HIV transmission and should be taken daily for maximum protection.

When Do I Need PEP Treatment?

PEP should be used only in the case of potential HIV exposure. It should not be taken as a preventative measure. If you believe you have been exposed to HIV, it's important to get tested as soon as possible and start PEP treatment within 72 hours. When it comes to PEP, every hour counts.

I Know What I Need. What Should I Do Now?

PrEP and PEP are both important tools for HIV. If you know that you need PrEP or PEP, the next step is to get a prescription from your doctor and start taking the medication.

If you've been recently exposed to HIV, it's important to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible. PEP must be started within 72 hours for it to be effective in preventing HIV infection.

If you're living in Western Pennsylvania or Ohio, the team at Central Outreach Wellness Center can help. Call us as soon as possible to be prescribed PEP and to start treatment.

If you've tested negative for HIV and believe that PrEP is the right choice for you, visit PrEP2Me online. We provide quick and discreet access to PrEP with a valid prescription from a licensed doctor. With our help, you can take control of your sexual health and reduce your risk of HIV transmission.

Get PrEP Online With PrEP2Me

No matter what your HIV prevention needs are, PrEP2Me is here to help you get the medication and resources you need. PrEP2Me offers a simple three-step process to get started with PrEP from the comfort of your own home: complete an at-home STI test, consult with a doctor via video chat, and get a prescription sent directly to your door.

We make it easy to get started with your PrEP prescription. Just fill out our simple online form.

At PrEP2Me, we make the prevention of HIV and AIDS simple and accessible to all!