PEP is Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. It's not PrEP, and it's not a substitue for PrEP and/or regular condom use. It's a medication regimen that you can take within 72 hours of a single high-risk event during which you might have been exposed to HIV to reduce your risk of becoming infected with HIV.

With PEP, time is critical. Every hour counts. If you think you need it, act as soon as possible. Once you begin a PEP regimen, you will need to take it once or twice daily for 28 days.

PEP is an emergency option. If you think you've been exposed to HIV, you can go to an emergency room, your doctor, an urgent care clinic, or a local HIV clinic.