Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is medication taken soon after HIV exposure to prevent infection. Eligible Victorians who have been exposed to HIV (either sexually or through needle-sharing) can visit the Royal Melbourne Hospital Emergency Department for advice about and access to PEP.
The Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) is a participating site of the Victorian Non-Occupational Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (NPEP) service.
This means people who have been exposed to HIV, either sexually or through needle-sharing, can attend the RMH Emergency Department for access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
What is the Victorian NPEP service?
The NPEP service is a statewide service run by Bayside Health (the Alfred) that provides information, advice and access to PEP medication to eligible Victorians to reduce their risk of acquiring HIV.
What is PEP?
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is medication you can take to prevent HIV infection after being exposed to the virus.
If taken correctly and very soon after exposure, PEP can help your immune system stop the virus replicating and establishing in your body.
How to take PEP
PEP is a short course of tablets (28 days) that must be started within 72 hours (3 days) of a high-risk HIV exposure.
PEP is most effective when started within 24 hours. The sooner you start the better.
Do I need to take PEP?
A course of PEP may be recommended if you have recently had unprotected (condomless) sex or shared needles with someone who has or might have HIV.
HIV risk assessment and advice
Call the PEP Phoneline on 1800 889 887 for advice on whether PEP is required in your situation.
The PEP Phoneline is available for anyone seeking advice on or access to PEP, including:
- people who have or may have been exposed to HIV (or their carers, family, support people or kin)
- general practitioners (GPs) and other health professionals
After hours: Visit a PEP site for advice outside business hours.
How to access PEP
During business hours, you can call the PEP Phoneline on 1800 889 887.
Outside of business hours, visit our Emergency Department or your nearest PEP site for quick advice and access to PEP. When deciding where to go, you may wish to check our Emergency wait times.
If you think you have been exposed, don’t wait
PEP is most effective when started within 24 hours and must be started within 72 hours.
Concerns when taking PEP
Call the PEP Phoneline on 1800 889 887 or speak to your GP if you have issues with your PEP treatment, such as missed doses or side effects.