PrEP stands for…
- Pre (Before)
- E (Exposure)
- P (Prophylaxis-Prevention)
PrEP is medication taken by HIV negative people to prevent them from getting HIV. You need to take PrEP correctly for 28 days for full protection after exposure to HIV.
PEP stands for…
- P (Post which means after)
- E (Exposure)
- P (Prophylaxis-Prevention)
PEP is medication taken shortly (within 72 hours) after exposure to HIV. PEP is taken by HIV negative people who have been exposed to HIV either through rape, sharing needles or having unprotected sex with someone who has/may have HIV. PEP should be used only in emergency situations – it doesn’t replace other proven HIV prevention methods.
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
ART, commonly known as antiretroviral (ARVs), are a lifelong treatment for people living with an HIV infection. This is to lessen the negative effects of HIV and strengthen the immune system.
Check out this cool video that explains the difference between PrEP and ART:
Find your nearest clinic offering PrEP here.
Find out more about what PrEP is and how it works in this article
Want to know about what side effects to expect when using PrEP? Read this.
