PEP in Dallas, TX
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis After HIV Exposure
If you think you might have been exposed to HIV, then a PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) prescription might be able to help, but only if you act quickly. PEP must be started within 72 hours of possible HIV exposure, so you must not delay in seeking treatment. Come to Advance ER in Dallas or call us at (214) 494-8222 immediately to learn more about PEP treatment and to find the ER closest to you. We have two 24/7 ERs in the Dallas area with no wait times—we can see if a PEP prescription is right for you right away.
What is PEP?
PEP is an oral medication that prepares your immune system to destroy HIV before it can multiply and become systemic or permanent, often fully destroying or dissipating the virus within 28 days. PEP involves taking prescription medication to prevent HIV after possible exposure to HIV already contracted by another person. When PEP begins within 72 hours of possible exposure, it is highly effective at preventing HIV. After 72 hours, though, it is not considered effective, so you should come to Advance ER immediately if you think PEP is necessary.
You might have been exposed to HIV if:
- You had sexual intercourse with someone who is HIV positive, especially if a condom was not used or broke during intercourse.
- You were sexually assaulted, especially if the sexual offender is unknown.
- You used injectable narcotics and shared a needle with someone else or used a needle that was not medically sealed first.
If any of the above situations are true for you, or if you are worried about being exposed to HIV in any other way, please contact Advance ER in Dallas nowto learn about PEP treatments at our medical clinics.
Is PEP Safe?
PEP is considered a highly safe and effective preventative treatment after HIV exposure.
The most common side effects of PEP are:
- Migraines
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
All PEP side effects are mild in the majority of cases. If the side effects are moderate, then they are considered treatable. PEP is not known to cause any severe or life-threatening side effects.
Is PEP Covered by Insurance?
Most healthcare insurance providers cover PEP in their policies. If you have healthcare insurance, then the cost of a PEP prescription could be mostly or entirely covered. Our team at Advance ER would be happy to help you understand the overall out-of-pocket cost of PEP when you arrive at our clinic.
Can You Take PEP After 72 Hours?
Pep is not considered effective after 72 hours of possible HIV exposure. If you were possibly exposed to HIV but more than 72 hours have passed, then PEP might not work for you. However, you should still come to one of the Dallas locations of Advance ER as soon as possible to discuss alternative treatments.
Come to Advance ER for PEP Now
It can’t be stressed enough—PEP must be taken within 72 hours of HIV exposure. Come to Advance ER in Dallas, TX, right now if you think you were exposed to HIV. When PEP is taken within 72 hours of HIV exposure, it can dissipate the virus entirely, preventing you from contracting HIV altogether.
For more information about PEP and how to get a prescription as soon as possible, dial (214) 494-8222.