Is using HIV medications safe after sexual assault?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was recently sexually assaulted, and the doctor gave me a month's prescription for HIV as a precaution. I just want to know if it is best to take it. If I take the medication and do not have it, I will react as if I do. Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The risk of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) after the assault is multifactorial, although small, but may be significant in certain circumstances. It is therefore advised to offer Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). The following are the critical considerations regarding PEP:

PEP is effective if initiated as early as possible after the exposure but within 72 hours.
It needs to be taken for complete 28 days.
With sufficient adherence, if appropriately taken within 72 hours of exposure, PEP can reduce the risk of HIV acquisition by 80 percent.
Please continue with PEP as advised, and do not miss any pills.
Post-PEP guidelines recommend HIV Antibody testing at six weeks of exposure, then at three months and six months.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.