#PrEP vs. PEP: What Is the Difference and Which One Do You Need?
Both **PrEP** and **PEP** are revolutionary medical treatments designed to prevent HIV infection. However, despite their similar names, they serve entirely different purposes, follow different timelines, and are taken in different scenarios.
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## PrEP vs. PEP: Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) | PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) |
|---|---|---|
| **Timing** | Taken **BEFORE** potential exposure | Taken **AFTER** potential exposure |
| **Purpose** | Ongoing, proactive daily protection | Emergency intervention |
| **Window** | Must be taken consistently for 7 days prior to maximum protection | Must start **within 72 hours** of exposure |
| **Duration** | Long-term (weeks, months, or years) | Exactly **28 days** |
| **Who is it for?** | People at ongoing risk of HIV | Anyone with a single high-risk exposure |
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## Deep Dive: What is PrEP?
**PrEP** stands for **Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis**. It is an oral pill taken daily by HIV-negative individuals to prevent acquiring HIV through sex or injection drug use.
* **Efficacy:** Reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by up to **99%** when taken as prescribed.
* **How it works:** It builds up protective medication levels in your bloodstream so that if you are exposed to HIV, the virus cannot replicate or infect your cells.
* **Who should consider PrEP?** Anyone who has an HIV-positive sexual partner, frequently engages in sex without condoms, or has recently been diagnosed with an STI.
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## Deep Dive: What is PEP?
**PEP** stands for **Post-Exposure Prophylaxis**. It is a short-term, 28-day antiretroviral treatment designed to stop HIV after a single potential exposure event.
* **Emergency Use Only:** PEP is not a substitute for regular condom use or daily PrEP.
* **Time-Sensitive:** It works best when started within **24 hours**, and becomes ineffective after **72 hours**.
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## Can You Switch From PEP to PrEP?
**Yes.** If you complete a 28-day course of PEP and test HIV-negative, but anticipate ongoing risk of HIV exposure, Dr. Hardik Thakker can seamlessly transition you directly onto a daily PrEP regimen.
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## Expert Guidance on PrEP & PEP in Mumbai
Choosing the right prevention strategy requires a clear assessment of your health profile and lifestyle. At **HIV Care India**, Dr. Hardik Thakker offers complete counseling, baseline blood work, and prescription management for both PrEP and PEP.
[Book Your Prevention Consultation]
www.hivcareindia.com
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