What Is Nonoccupational Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (nPEP)?

Nonoccupational post-exposure prophylaxis, also called nPEP or PEP, is medicine that may help stop HIV after a possible exposure outside of work. People may need nPEP after condomless sex, a broken condom, sharing needles, or sexual assault. It is for emergency use only, not everyday prevention. 

nPEP must be started within 72 hours of a possible HIV exposure. The sooner it is started, the better. Many people take nPEP for 28 days. A health care provider will decide if nPEP is right for you based on what happened and when it happened. 

nPEP is not the same as PrEP. PrEP is used before exposure for people who want ongoing HIV prevention. nPEP is used after a possible exposure. If you think you were exposed to HIV, do not wait. Every hour counts. 

If you need fast, caring support, seek care at Pineapple Healthcare. Our team can help you understand your options, answer your questions, and connect you with HIV prevention services as quickly as possible. Getting seen fast can make a real difference.