Does PreP (pre exposure prophylaxis) is effective in HIV prevention after 72 hrs? If the cycle is started from 4th day of exposure, it is effective in prevention? What to do if it is taken taken later than 3 days.

Dr. Hemant KumarHIV Specialist41yrs exp

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Hello. Pr EP ie pre exposure prophylaxis is different from nPEP ,ie non occupational post exposure prophylaxis. What I assume you are asking for nPEP, which is taken after exposure as the name suggest and PEP is taken before exposure ie pre exposure. The drugs are different for PEP and nPEP. The nPEP should be taken as soon as possible after the potential exposure (the risk from exposure can be evaluated) and with in 24 hrs but not later than 72 hrs. NPEP is not recommended after 72 hrs as it is unlikely to be effective (CDC, USA nPEP guidelines 2016 update) for more info and guidence you can have pvt chat with anyone you wish or consult a local physician.  

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