Information about Accessing PEP

Before going forward, people at risk of HIV need to know that an infection can be stopped using PEP. Although, few surveys have been conducted to determine the proportion of the population aware of the drugs; those done indicate that a small percentage of heterosexual and gay men and women, know about the drugs. The trend is even consistent in cities with established healthcare systems. Thus, wherever you are it essential to educate others.

Acting Fast Is Crucial

The more prolonged the interval before someone starts taking HIV PEP drugs, after exposure the less likely they can prevent an infection. Once you are exposed, experts recommend taking the medications before 72 hours lapse. On exposure, the virus spreads to cells at the sites, such as in the anus, vagina or penis by rapidly replicating. Virions are produced as a result, and they start spreading to other cells and tissues, after a few days. HIV PEP drugs are thought to halt this process at the points of contact. As a result, the virions don’t spread.  As you can see, you must take the drugs before 72 hours, or else the infection becomes permanent.

Where to Go for Treatment

Only a qualified doctor can prescribe HIV PEP drugs. Because acting fast is crucial, various emergency rooms, open 24/7 can provide the initial dose.  You can also contact your medical provider who has information about local healthcare facilities offering HIV PEP drugs.

HIV Testing Is Mandatory before PEP

Before accessing any treatments, testing for HIV is a requirement. The patient might have been already infected. In this case, PEP will produce no results. However, most healthcare facilities, prescribe the drugs as the results are pending.  If the results are positive, PEP administration is stopped. Instead, the doctor can prescribe highly active antiretroviral medications for long-term care.

Treatment for PEP Might be Costly

Among the number of patients at high-risk, not all can access private and public insurance plans. Thus, the full cost of HIV PEP has to be covered by patients.  However, this can be costly, and finding other options where you don’t have to pay is difficult. Thus, there is a lot of lobbying still required to make the drugs accessible. Additionally, people at most risk need education about HIV testing and PEP use.

Are There Side Effects?

Yes, users of the drugs can experience diarrhoea, fatigue, and nausea. However, this is not the most adverse effect. Inconsistent use of the drugs can make you drug-resistant and increase the risk of HIV. Also, doctors have to carry out tests to determine the toxicity of the drugs and each HIV PEP treatment may call for different tests.

In summary, accessing the drugs within a short time is essential. However, this remains difficult because there is no way to tell if an infection has occurred. Hence undergoing HIV and STD testing from time to time helps you make excellent choices. In the end, prevention is better than cure.