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PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis, meaning prevention after exposure) is emergency medication that can lower the chance of infection after possible exposure to HIV – for example sex without a condom, a condom that splits, shared needles or sexual assault. [1]
Treatment must start within 72 hours at the latest – the sooner it starts, the better the chance of preventing infection. At Sabjanics Medical Center we offer urgent PEP consultations. [1] [2]
If a risky situation happened in the last 72 hours, don’t wait! Call us straight away on +36 70 551 5538. Outside consultation hours, go to your nearest emergency department.
When is PEP needed?
PEP is considered if, in the last 72 hours, something happened that could have passed on HIV, for example: [1]
- vaginal or anal sex without a condom with a partner of unknown status or who is HIV-positive,
- a condom splitting or slipping off,
- sharing a needle or syringe,
- sexual assault.
PEP is an emergency measure: for anyone regularly exposed to risk, PrEP is the right, lasting protection. [1]
How does treatment work?
PEP is a course of HIV medicines taken every day for 28 days. [2]
At the first visit, our specialist assesses the risk and does the baseline tests: an HIV test, hepatitis B, kidney and liver function tests, and a pregnancy test and STI screening if needed. [2]
The medicines are usually well tolerated; nausea, for example, can occur, but side effects can almost always be managed. [1]
A quick guide to PEP
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS
- How much time do I have?
- Treatment must start no later than 72 hours after the risky situation – the sooner, the better. [1]
- How should I prepare?
- Come as soon as you can, and bring a list of the medicines you take. If you know it, tell us your partner’s HIV status too. The consultation is completely confidential.
- When do I need to come back for follow-up tests?
- An HIV test is recommended 4–6 weeks after starting treatment, and again 12 weeks after the risky situation. [2]
- How will I receive my result?
- With your consent, we email your result as an encrypted, password-protected PDF. At the follow-up consultation, our specialist will explain it to you in detail. How results are sent
What happens after treatment?
After the 28-day course, follow-up tests confirm that no infection has developed. If the risk continues in the future, you can move straight from PEP to PrEP. [2]
Don’t wait – every hour counts! If a risky situation has happened, call us straight away and ask for an urgent PEP consultation at Sabjanics Medical Center.
Sources: [1] CDC – About PEP · [2] CDC – PEP recommendations, 2025
This guide does not replace a consultation with a doctor.