PEP (HIV prevention) can be booked online
Order OnlineWhat is HIV?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that infects CD4-positive lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), which are responsible for the body's immune function, gradually weakening the immune system. It is mainly transmitted through sexual intercourse (especially unprotected sex), blood-borne transmission (such as sharing needles), and mother-to-child transmission.
Even if infected with HIV, there are often no symptoms immediately after infection, or only temporary flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, and it often takes several years to 10 years for self-perceived symptoms to appear.
AIDS
If left untreated, the immune system will significantly weaken, leading to the development of AIDS, which is characterized by opportunistic infections and cancers caused by pathogens that would normally not be problematic.
Thanks to advances in treatment, early detection and continuous appropriate treatment (anti-HIV therapy) now allow people with HIV to live lives almost indistinguishable from healthy individuals without developing AIDS.
What is PEP?
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a preventative treatment that involves taking anti-HIV drugs for a certain period after an act with a risk of HIV infection, to prevent the establishment and infection of the virus.
HIV does not complete its replication in the body immediately after infection. By taking appropriate medication in the early stages of infection, it is possible to suppress viral replication before the virus establishes itself in the body, and thus prevent the infection itself.
Must start taking within 72 hours
To obtain the effect of PEP, it is essential to start taking it as soon as possible after exposure (ideally within a few hours, maximum 72 hours). The longer the time passes, the lower the effect will be.
Expected duration of PEP effectiveness
| Time elapsed since exposure | Effectiveness | Recommended action |
|---|---|---|
| Within ~2 hours | Highest effectiveness | Immediate initiation of medication is recommended |
| Within 24 hours | High effectiveness expected | Prompt consultation is recommended |
| Within 48-72 hours | Effectiveness can be expected but decreases with time | Consultation as soon as possible is recommended |
| Over 72 hours | Outside of PEP indications | If concerned, testing is recommended |
Cases where PEP is needed
If any of the following acts have occurred, PEP may be considered for administration.
Please consult us early if any of the following apply:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse occurred
- Condom broke or came off during sexual intercourse
- Had sexual intercourse with multiple partners
- Partner's HIV status is unknown, or infection is confirmed
- Experienced sexual assault
- Healthcare worker who experienced a needle stick injury during work, etc.
Emergency response in cases of clear risk behavior
PEP is not a "just in case" preventive measure. Even if you are unsure, the effectiveness decreases with time, so please consult us first.
Contents of the PEP Set
Our PEP set includes medication and home testing kits.
| Contents | Purpose | Timing of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-HIV drug (28 days' supply) | Oral medication for HIV infection prevention | Start within 72 hours of exposure, continue for 28 days |
| HIV test kit (1st) | Confirmation of HIV infection status at the time of exposure | |
| HIV test kit (2nd) | Confirmation of infection status after PEP administration | During follow-up after completion of medication |
| Hepatitis B test kit | Confirmation of Hepatitis B infection status | Before starting medication |
Instructions for using the test kit are included in the package. If you have any concerns about the results, please contact us at any time.
Dosage and Duration
28 days of continuous medication is essential
For PEP, anti-HIV drugs are taken continuously for 28 days (4 weeks). Interrupting the medication not only prevents full prophylactic effect but also risks developing drug-resistant viruses, so it is crucial to take the medication for the prescribed period.
About side effects
The main side effects observed in the initial stages of anti-HIV drug administration are as follows. Most subside with continued medication.
| Symptom | Likely occurrence period | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | Beginning of medication ~ several days | Can be alleviated by taking after meals or with antiemetics |
| Fatigue | Beginning of medication ~ approx. 1 week | Rest and sufficient sleep for observation |
| Diarrhea | Beginning of medication ~ several days | Hydration, consult if symptoms are severe |
| Headache | Beginning of medication ~ several days | Over-the-counter pain relievers may be effective |
If severe symptoms persist, do not stop taking the medication on your own, and be sure to consult us.
Post-medication testing
After PEP administration, follow-up tests such as HIV antibody tests are performed at the end of administration and after a certain period to confirm whether infection has occurred.
PEP does not prevent sexually transmitted infections other than HIV.
PEP is a drug that reduces the risk of HIV infection and does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, or hepatitis B. If you have engaged in risky behavior, it is recommended that you also get tested for other sexually transmitted infections.
Flow of examination and prescription at our clinic
Step ① Provisional payment & pre-consultation
Please select your desired plan and place an order. After placing your order, please answer the questionnaire sent via LINE or email. By providing the doctor with the date and time of the risky behavior and the details of the act, we can quickly determine the applicability of PEP.
Step ② Online consultation
A doctor will provide counseling and prescribe medication via video call. All you need is a smartphone or PC.
Step ③ Same-day shipping in as little as possible
Orders with video calls completed by 3:00 PM daily will be shipped the same day. Packages are delivered with privacy-conscious packaging. In addition to 28 days of anti-HIV medication, two HIV test kits (for before and after medication) and one Hepatitis B test kit (for before medication) are included.
Step ④ Home testing and initiation of medication
Before starting medication, use the HIV test kit and Hepatitis B test kit to confirm your current infection status. Once a negative result is confirmed, start medication immediately. After completing the medication, perform a follow-up test with the second HIV test kit.
About Fees
PEP is a self-pay treatment, and health insurance does not apply. Fees vary depending on the type of medication and payment method. Please check the fees page or inquire during your consultation for detailed pricing.
