Does PEP provide protection from HIV after a deep kiss?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I want to know if Tenofovir, Emtricitabine, and Efavirenz are the best for PEP(post-exposure prophylaxis). I have already taken these medications for one month. But I am overthinking and worried about it. I had a deep kiss for the first time with a stranger almost a month ago. While kissing, I tasted the blood of that person. I started medications for my peace of mind. Will this work? Kindly help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I appreciate the confidence you place in me for your healthcare consultation. Do not worry. You just had a deep kiss. I suggest you answer a few questions mentioned below:
- Was the person looking healthy?
- Did you have any ulcers in your mouth?
- Did you have any unprotected sexual activity?
Reply to all these questions with details. It will help me to advise you properly. As you have already taken PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) for 30 days, you are safe.
I hope this has helped you.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
I was not able to see properly whether the person was looking healthy or not. It happened in a dim environment, and I did not have the chance to see him again, as it happened only once. It was just a deep kiss and nothing more. Neither penetration nor oral sex happened. I am worried as I was three hours late taking the PEP medicines. I am not sure if I had sores in my mouth at that time. As of now, there are no ulcers in my mouth. But the medicines did give me anxiety.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
We value the high level of confidence you have in us! So there was no unprotected vaginal intercourse or oral sex. It was only a deep kiss. I think you must have gargled immediately. As you started PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) within 24 hours after the incident, you are safe. You can confirm it by doing a fourth-generation test 45 days after the exposure. Be relaxed.
I hope this has helped you.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
I started PEP two days after the incident. It happened in the evening and I started the medications on the second day evening. I did not gargle when this incident happened. I just went to bed after that as there was very little taste of blood. I am worried as I am not sure why I did not regain my energy back. I Am still tired and do not want to go out. I feel dizzy if I move so much. The doctor who prescribed me the PEP medicine told me that there will be side effects that will just fade away over time, but it did not for me. I am sure I felt dizzy for the first week. But I still do not know why I am very tired and my head palpitates when I think, but no pain. It has been three days already since I did not take medicines. If I am HIV positive, will I be experiencing these symptoms? I have not experienced any night sweating or muscle pain as of now.
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I am here to help you get the best medical advice.
Your current symptoms, like weakness, dizziness, low energy, lack of confidence, etc., are due to fear and anxiety. These are not related to HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). The exchange was saliva only, and there is no evidence of HIV transmission through kissing. You also started PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) within 72 hours of exposure. PEP is highly effective. Be relaxed.
I hope this has helped you.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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