PrEP and PEP

Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) is when people at very high risk for HIV take HIV medicines daily to lower their chances of becoming infected. PrEP can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout your body. It is highly effective for preventing HIV if used as prescribed, but it is much less effective when not taken consistently.

IHS Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Guidelines Template [PDF - 136 KB]

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for the Prevention of HIV Infection in the United States (2021 Update) [PDF - 1.6 MB] Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  - This version updates the review of scientific evidence on the safety and efficacy of antiretroviral HIV PrEP. In addition, this update includes guidance for recommended initial and follow-up STI screening, revised HIV testing strategies, and recommended primary care practices for patients prescribed oral or injectable PrEP.

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HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

Post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, is a way to prevent HIV infection after a recent possible exposure to the virus.

Post Exposure prophylaxis is offered for sexual exposure and injection drug exposure only if treatment can be started within 72 hours of exposure. Prompt evaluation by a provider is strongly recommended to start treatment before this time interval has passed.

Recommendations for HIV prevention with adults and adolescents with HIV in the United States Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  - CDC, 2014

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