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PrEP vs. PEP: What’s the Difference?

The words PrEP and PEP are thrown around a lot in the area of HIV prevention. But what are they? And what do they do? We’re breaking down the difference between the two, and, how to access them if you need them. 

PrEP

PrEP stands for Pre-exposure prophylaxis. It’s meant to be taken before a potential exposure to HIV. It is 99% effective in preventing HIV, and its effectiveness depends on how consistently you take it. Whether it’s by bimonthly injection, or a daily pill, either way of taking PrEP is a valid way of going about it.

How to get on PrEP (without insurance)

  1. Enter your information into our easy, user-friendly online form at PrEP2Me.com. (Don’t forget your driver’s license).
  2. We’ll send you the at-home lab kit you’ll need to screen for STIs before starting PrEP. This is a pain-free test you can perform yourself in 5 minutes or less.
  3. We’ll reach out to you about scheduling your first telePrEP appointment. You can also select an in-person meeting at one of our six Central Outreach Wellness Center locations.
  4. Your meds will be shipped to your door in discreet packaging as soon as possible!

PEP

PEP stands for Post-exposure prophylaxis. It’s something that is taken after a potential exposure to HIV. Unlike PrEP, which you take in the long term to prevent HIV, it’s a short-term course of medication, where it needs to be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of potential exposure. It should only be used in emergencies.  

How to get on PEP (without insurance)

  1. Visit one of the six Central Outreach clinics (preferably as a walk-in). We want to start PEP within that 72-hour exposure window, so DON’T wait for an appointment.
  2. You will get a full STI screen, including a rapid HIV test.  Your clinician will review treatment options and will discuss medication options for PEP.  
  3. You will start PEP at the visit, pick up a 28-day supply of medications at the pharmacy the same day, and schedule a one-month follow-up appointment.


If you are exposed over the weekend, call the office at 855-5-WE-CARE. The on-call clinician will help you decide your next steps and plan with you to get tested, start PEP, and follow up with us.

PrEP and PEP are key tools in HIV prevention, and we want to make access to them as easy as possible. Next time you visit us, whether you walk in or schedule an appointment ahead of time, ask your clinician if you have further questions about PrEP or PEP.