What is a Pep Pill?
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) means taking medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. PEP should be used only in emergencies and must be started within 72 hours after a recent possible exposure to HIV.
Where Can I Buy Pep Pills In South Africa?
The best place to get PEP is a sexual health or HIV clinic.
If you need PEP over the weekend or outside of office hours, when clinics will often be closed, the best place to go is an Accident and Emergency department. PEP is not normally available from GPs. Find out your nearest clinic.
Where to get PEP pills South Africa?
Visit your nearest doctor to assist you with the PEP treatment. What should I do if I am accidentally exposed to HIV? Phone LifeSense on 086 050 6080 to start post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) immediately. NB: You must start within 72 hours from exposure.
Can I get PEP at the chemist in South Africa?
While pharmacists have not yet been authorized to prescribe ART, PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), or PrEP in South Africa, the EPIC consortium has piloted the initiation of ART, PEP, and PrEP at multiple pharmacies across the country – including in both independent and corporate pharmacies.
What drugs are used for PEP in South Africa?
TABLE 5
| Scenario | Recommended PEP regimen |
|---|---|
| First option | Zidovudine (AZT) + 3TC + DTG |
| If DTG not available | Zidovudine (AZT) + 3TC + protease inhibitor (ATV/r or LPV/r) |
| Alternative option | Abacavir (ABC) + 3TC + DTG |
| ABC should only be used if there is no alternative as there is a risk of a hypersensitivity reaction to ABC. |
How does PEP work in South Africa?
South African policy advises that PEP should be administered within 72 hours after the potential exposure to HIV. The drug regimen for PEP consists of a combination of ARV mediations that are taken a period of four weeks.