Dr. Atishay Bukharia
Dermatology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
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Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a male who had unprotected intercourse two days ago with a female who had tested negative on Oralquick two months ago. Turns out she has been quite active, and I am debating on doing PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). I can see her on Tuesday and she said will take another test but that will be 96 hours. I can start PEP tomorrow but it may not be needed if she tests negative. My questions are if I start PEP, can I stop if I find it is not needed? How much does one trust an Oralquick test? I read they can have 7 % false negatives. Does taking Acyclovir have any effect on HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) or PEP? Should I do PEP?
Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com.
Acyclovir has no effect on PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). Yes, it would be wise to start PEP and later you can stop it. Oraquick is not reliable after two days of exposure. Hope it helps.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My question was how much to trust a negative from an Oraquick test? She tested negative two months ago, and she could test again tomorrow. In regards to PEP, is it dangerous to start it and stop early (if she tests negative tomorrow) for future use? Could it affect the medicine's effectiveness in the future?
Hello, Welcome back to icliniq.com.
After four weeks of exposure, OraQuick is sensitive up to 99 percent. One or two doses of PEP are not going to make any difference, and no way it will affect the future course of medication. Hope it helps.
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Dermatology
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