PEP treatment near me: act within 72 hours
Worried about a possible HIV exposure? PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) can lower the chance of HIV infection, but it must be started within 72 hours — and the sooner, the better. Talk privately to our HIV doctor today.
PEP is a 28-day course of HIV medicines started after a possible exposure, such as unprotected sex, a condom break or a needle-stick injury. It must begin within 72 hours, ideally within the first few hours. A doctor first checks your risk, then prescribes the right medicines and plans your follow-up tests. At Dr. Monga Clinic you can consult at our Delhi NCR clinics or online from anywhere in India, with medicines delivered to your door.
100% confidential. Your details are kept private.
This guide explains PEP and HIV prevention in simple words, based on WHO and NACO guidance. It is for education only — our doctor will advise on your own situation. Last updated: 12 October 2026.
PEP, PrEP or ART: which one do you need?
PEP is for after a possible exposure (start within 72 hours). PrEP is for before possible future exposure. ART is treatment for people living with HIV. Not sure which applies to you? Our doctor can guide you in a short, private consultation.
Based on official guidance: WHO post-exposure prophylaxis guidance and NACO’s PEP information for India.
What is PEP and who needs it?
PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis. It is a short course of anti-HIV medicines that can stop HIV from taking hold in the body after a possible exposure. It is meant for emergencies, not as a regular form of protection.
You may need PEP after unprotected sex or a condom break with a partner whose HIV status is positive or unknown, after sexual assault, after sharing needles, or after a needle-stick injury at work. If you are not sure whether your situation counts, speak to a doctor — that is exactly what the consultation is for.
How soon should PEP be started?
PEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) of the possible exposure. It works best when started as early as possible — ideally within the first few hours. After 72 hours, PEP is usually not recommended.
Do not wait for symptoms or for a test result before seeking help. An HIV test done right after an exposure cannot show whether infection has happened. If you are close to the 72-hour limit and cannot reach us, go to the nearest hospital emergency department or government ART centre straight away.
What should you do right now after a possible exposure?
Stay calm and act quickly. If there is a wound or needle-stick injury, wash it with soap and running water — do not squeeze or scrub it. If fluid splashed into your eyes, nose or mouth, rinse with clean water. Then note roughly when the exposure happened.
Next, call or WhatsApp a doctor. Never borrow someone else’s tablets or buy HIV medicines without a prescription. The doctor will check your risk, arrange a baseline HIV test and, if needed, start PEP the same day.
How are PEP, PrEP and ART different?
PEP is taken for 28 days after a possible exposure. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is taken regularly by people who may be exposed to HIV in the future, to prevent infection. ART (antiretroviral therapy) is treatment for people who are already living with HIV.
After finishing PEP, some people move on to PrEP if they expect future risk. Your doctor will test you first and advise whether this is right for you. Never start, stop or switch these medicines on your own.
How does ART help people living with HIV?
ART lowers the amount of virus in the body and protects the immune system. Taken every day as prescribed, it allows people living with HIV to lead long, healthy lives. When the virus becomes undetectable on treatment, HIV is not passed on through sex.
ART controls HIV but does not remove it from the body, so it is taken lifelong. Stopping treatment lets the virus rise again. Be careful of anyone who claims to “cure” HIV quickly — that claim is false.
What happens during your PEP consultation?
The doctor will ask what happened, when it happened and a few health questions, such as your current medicines and allergies. You don’t need medical words — just explain in your own way. Everything you share stays confidential.
Based on your risk, the doctor will tell you whether PEP is needed, arrange a baseline HIV test and other tests if required, prescribe the medicines and explain how to take them. You will also get a clear follow-up plan.
Who decides whether you need PEP?
Only a qualified doctor should decide. Online checklists cannot account for your situation — the type of contact, the timing, your health and the latest guidelines all matter.
If the doctor decides PEP is not needed, they will explain why and tell you about testing and safer options for the future. Either way, you leave with a clear answer instead of worry.
Which tests are needed with PEP?
An HIV test is usually done at the start to make sure you are not already HIV positive. Some people also need kidney, liver or hepatitis B tests before or during PEP. Your doctor will tell you which ones you need.
Follow-up HIV tests are done after you finish PEP, at times your doctor sets according to current guidelines. Keep these appointments even if you feel well — they are the only way to confirm that you are HIV negative.
How should PEP medicines be taken?
PEP is a combination of anti-HIV medicines taken once or twice a day for 28 days. Take every dose at about the same time each day and complete the full course, even if you feel fine.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for advice — don’t double up on your own. Tell the doctor about any other medicines, supplements or antacids you take, as some can interact with PEP. Never share your medicines with anyone.
Does PEP have side effects?
Most people take modern PEP medicines without serious problems. Some feel mild nausea, tiredness, headache or an upset stomach, especially in the first few days. These usually settle as the body adjusts.
Tell your doctor if a side effect bothers you — it can usually be managed without stopping PEP. Get urgent medical help for severe symptoms such as a rash with fever, yellow eyes or difficulty breathing. Do not stop the course on your own.
How can you protect yourself in the future?
PEP is for emergencies. For ongoing protection, combine condoms, regular HIV and STI testing and — if you are at continuing risk — PrEP. Your doctor can suggest a plan that suits your lifestyle.
Getting tested regularly and knowing your partner’s status also helps. If you have needed PEP more than once, ask the doctor whether PrEP would be a better choice for you.
Can everyday contact spread HIV?
No. HIV does not spread through hugging, shaking hands, sharing food or utensils, using the same toilet, mosquito bites or touching ordinary surfaces. It spreads mainly through unprotected sex, shared needles, infected blood and from mother to baby.
If a specific incident worries you — for example, a cut from a used blade — explain the details to a doctor. They can tell you whether there was any real risk and whether PEP is needed. Our everyday HIV risks guide covers many common situations.
Is your PEP consultation confidential?
Yes. At Dr. Monga Clinic your consultation, test results and records are kept strictly private. You can speak to the doctor directly, without explaining your situation at the reception.
If you share a phone or email with someone, tell us and we will use a contact method that protects your privacy. You will be treated with respect — there is no judgement, whatever your situation.
What does care look like for people living with HIV?
If you are living with HIV, care includes daily ART, routine tests to check how well treatment is working, and support for side effects, mental health and other health needs. Your doctor will set a plan for your check-ups.
With treatment, people living with HIV can work, have relationships and raise families. An HIV diagnosis does not define who you are. If you are supporting someone, listen first and keep their health information private.
Feeling anxious after an exposure? You are not alone
Worry, poor sleep and constant searching online are very common after a possible exposure. Symptoms cannot tell you whether you have HIV — only the right tests at the right time can. Talking to a doctor usually brings much-needed clarity.
If anxiety is affecting your daily life, ask about counselling. If you ever feel unsafe or think you may harm yourself, contact local emergency services or someone you trust immediately.
How can you get PEP treatment near you?
Visit our clinics in Lajpat Nagar 4 and Dwarka Sector 9 (New Delhi) or DLF Phase 4 (Gurugram). If you live elsewhere, consult our doctor online from anywhere in India — after assessment you get a prescription, and your PEP medicines are delivered to your door, usually within 12–24 hours.
PEP is also available free at government ART centres. If you prefer one-to-one guidance from an experienced doctor and complete privacy, our private consultation is available every day. Whichever option you choose, don’t delay — PEP must start within 72 hours.
What questions should you ask the doctor?
Helpful questions include: Do I need PEP? Which medicines will I take, and how? What side effects should I watch for? Which tests do I need, and when? Whom do I contact if I miss a dose?
Ask for written instructions and a contact number. If cost is a concern, ask for a clear estimate of consultation, tests and medicines. Don’t delay calling while you prepare questions — time matters with PEP.
What this page can — and cannot — do for you
This page explains PEP and HIV prevention in simple language so you can make a quick, informed decision. It cannot tell whether you were exposed, prescribe medicine or interpret your test results.
Those decisions need a doctor who knows your situation. If you had a possible exposure in the last 72 hours, call 8010977000 or WhatsApp 919999219128 now for a private consultation.
Which PEP guide can help next?
Pick the topic that answers your question.
PEP and HIV: frequently asked questions
What does PEP treatment near me mean?
It means finding a doctor who can quickly assess your exposure and start PEP within 72 hours. You can visit our Delhi NCR clinics or consult online from anywhere in India, with medicines delivered to your door.
Is PEP the same as PrEP?
No. PEP is a 28-day course taken after a possible exposure and must start within 72 hours. PrEP is taken regularly before possible exposure to prevent HIV.
How soon should I start PEP?
Within 72 hours of the exposure, and the sooner the better — ideally within a few hours. Do not wait for symptoms or test results.
Can I get PEP without visiting a clinic?
Yes. You can consult our doctor online. After assessment you get a prescription, and the medicines are delivered to your home, usually within 12–24 hours.
How much does a PEP consultation cost?
The HIV & STD consultation fee is ₹2,000. Medicines and tests are charged separately and are explained before you start.
Medical sources
This guide follows the official guidance below.
- Guidelines for HIV post-exposure prophylaxis — World Health Organization (WHO), 2024
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) — National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), Government of India
Information only, not a substitute for a consultation. PEP must be prescribed by a licensed doctor.
Last updated: 12 October 2026