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If you are sexually active and have very recently had unprotected, it is important for you to know about HIV PEP in Singapore. HIV PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a course of medication that can help prevent HIV infection after exposure to the virus.
This blog post will discuss how long HIV PEP is taken and what you can expect if you decide to undergo treatment. We will also explain;
- What happens if you miss one day of PEP?
- What side effects you may experience while taking HIV PEP
- How much does PEP cost in Singapore and
- What you need to know before taking PEP
Why is PEP needed for 28 Days?
PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, is a 28-day regimen of antiretroviral medications that can be used to prevent HIV infection after exposure. The medication must be started within 72 hours of exposure and is most effective when started as soon as possible.
PEP is not 100% effective, but it can reduce the risk of infection by a significant percentage. People at high risk for HIV exposure, such as healthcare workers or people who have unprotected sex with someone of unknown HIV status, may be prescribed PEP regularly.
For others, PEP may be used only after a one-time exposure. There are many reasons why PEP is needed for 28 days. First and foremost, this time frame maximizes the chance that the drug regimen will be successful in preventing HIV infection.
So, PEP is needed for 28 days to ensure that the person taking it has enough time to develop immunity to HIV. Additionally, PEP must be started as soon as possible after exposure – ideally within hours, but certainly within 72 hours – so that it can be most effective. The sooner you start treatment, the better your chances are of preventing infection.
Another reason PEP is needed for 28 days is that it takes time for the viral load of HIV to increase in the body after infection. By the time someone feels sick or develops symptoms of AIDS, the virus has already been replicating in their body for months.
Please, note that PEP is not a substitute for safer sex practices, such as using condoms, and it should not be used as a way to avoid getting tested for HIV. If you think you have been exposed to HIV, contact your healthcare provider or an emergency room immediately.
What Happens if I Miss one day of PEP
If you check on Google, one of the most common questions about HIV PEP in Singapore is what would really happen if, for any reason, you miss one day of PEP. Now, it’s important to take all of your PEP medication and not miss any doses.
Missing even one day of PEP can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of infection. If you do miss a dose, it is important not to double up on the next dose.
Doing so can lead to side effects which may be serious. Instead, simply resume taking the medication as prescribed. If you miss more than 48 hours of PEP, the treatment will need to be discontinued.
In short, missing even one day of PEP can jeopardize its effectiveness. Therefore, it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and start treatment immediately after exposure.
What Side Effects you may Experience while Taking HIV PEP
Although PEP is generally safe, it can cause some mild side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache. These side effects are typically short-lived and resolve within a few days. In rare cases, PEP may cause more serious side effects, such as kidney damage or liver toxicity.
However, these serious side effects are extremely rare, and the overall risk of developing them is low. If you experience any severe side effects while taking PEP, it’s important to stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
Despite the potential for side effects, PEP is an essential tool for preventing HIV infection. When taken correctly, it is highly effective at preventing HIV transmission. For people who are at high risk of exposure to HIV, PEP can be a lifesaving medication.
How much does PEP cost in Singapore?
In Singapore, the cost of HIV PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is about S$1,200 for a 28-day course of treatment. However, this cost can vary depending on the hospital or clinic where you receive treatment.
Some hospitals may offer discounts for patients who are unable to pay the full cost. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover the cost of HIV PEP.
If you think you have been exposed to HIV, remember that it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you start treatment, the more likely it is to be effective. If you have any questions about the cost of HIV PEP or whether your insurance will cover it, please speak to a medical professional.
What do I need to know Before Taking PEP?
PEP comes in pill form and should only be taken as a last resort. Now, before getting PEP, it is important to consult with a nurse or doctor to see if the medication is right for you.
This will involve discussing what happened and getting a blood test for HIV. If you already have HIV, you, unfortunately, will not be able to use PEP.
You will also be tested for Hepatitis B. Furthermore, if you were exposed to HIV through sex, you will get tests for other STDs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis.
All of these factors must be taken into account before starting PEP to ensure that the person is making the best decision for their health. Also, keep in mind that PEP is not 100% effective. There is still a small chance that you could still contract HIV despite taking the medication.
The Bottom Line
Your best bet to avoid HIV is to always use condoms and never share needles. However, if you think you may have been exposed to the virus, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Our team of medical professionals can help you determine whether HIV PEP is right for you. We offer confidential testing and counseling services to help you make the best decision for your health. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. Call: +6588812344.
Dr Ben Medical @ Raffles Place : Ear Wax Removal, Allergy Testing, Erectile Dysfunction
1 Raffles Pl, #04-50, Singapore 048616
+65 8881 2344
