HIV PEP IN SINGAPORE: EMERGENCY ACTION, EFFECTIVE PREVENTION

In Singapore, there exist medications designed to prevent HIV transmission even after potential exposure, such as unprotected intercourse with an HIV-positive individual. This intervention, known as HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis, involves the prompt administration of medication following exposure to HIV. However, research underscores the critical importance of initiating HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis within 72 hours of exposure.

What is PEP?

PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, is a short course of HIV medication taken after potential exposure to the virus. It’s designed to stop HIV from taking hold in your body and must be started within 72 hours, ideally as soon as possible after the exposure. PEP is typically prescribed after events like unprotected sex with a partner of unknown status, condom failure, or needlestick injuries. The treatment lasts 28 days and is highly effective when taken correctly.

HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis demonstrates heightened effectiveness when administered within the first 24 hours post-exposure, offering substantial protection against infection in most instances. However, it’s essential to recognise that while HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis serves as an emergency measure, it should not replace standard preventive practices, such as consistently using protection during sexual activity. It functions as a crucial emergency response, although it may not fully mitigate the risks associated with high-risk behaviours. Nevertheless, it remains among the most effective emergency preventive methods available.

If you suspect potential exposure to HIV, whether through needle sharing or unprotected sexual encounters with unfamiliar partners, immediate action is imperative. Every passing hour is consequential, emphasising the urgency of seeking medical attention promptly.

Understanding HIV Risk

In instances of unprotected sexual activity where HIV exposure is a concern, several factors warrant consideration. Research indicates that the risk of HIV transmission from a single episode of unprotected intercourse is relatively low, typically less than 1%. Conversely, the risk escalates significantly, up to approximately 15%, with needle sharing. Despite this, it’s advisable to consider HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis following any potential exposure to HIV.

Studies suggest that the relatively low transmission risk can be attributed to factors such as a diminished viral load in some HIV-positive individuals. Additionally, the presence of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may heighten the risk of HIV transmission, particularly when mucous membranes are compromised.

Who Should Consider HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis?

HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis is intended for emergency use and is most effective when administered within the 72-hour window following exposure. Situations where PEP may be warranted include:

  • Incidents involving the breakage or slippage of protection during sexual intercourse
  • Engaging in sexual activity with individuals known to be HIV-positive
  • Sexual encounters with partners exhibiting risky behaviours and uncertain HIV status
  • Needle sharing or exposure to contaminated needles
  • Contact with blood or semen through open cuts, wounds, or mucosal surfaces
  • Instances of sexual assault
  • Additionally, HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis may be recommended for occupational exposure to HIV, such as needle prick injuries occurring in healthcare settings.

Initiating HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis

HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis initiation hinges on the individual’s history of potential exposure. However, when administered within the 72-hour timeframe, PEP demonstrates efficacy in preventing infection in approximately 90% of cases. Before commencing treatment, one typically needs to get some baseline blood tests done to screen for contraindications and assess one’s kidney and liver function.

HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis medications, extensively tested over the years, are considered safe and are commonly used for both prevention and treatment of HIV. Typically, HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis involves a 28-day course of medication, often prescribed once or twice daily and consists of a combination of antiretroviral drugs. While side effects are rare due to the short duration of treatment, regular monitoring of liver and kidney function ensures patient safety throughout therapy.

HIV Exposure Timeline

Before Exposure
72 hours After Exposure
10 to 20 Days After Exposure
18 to 45 Days After Exposure
23 to 42 Days After Exposure
Before high-risk exposure, PrEP is a powerful step in protecting yourself from HIV infection. Whether you're anticipating a new relationship, planning travel, or entering situations with potential HIV risk, starting PrEP in advance ensures your body is prepared. When taken consistently, PrEP can reduce your risk of HIV by up to 99%. It’s peace of mind, built on preparation.
LEARN ABOUT PREP
If you've had a potential HIV exposure, it's important to take action as soon as possible. PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of medication that can prevent HIV infection if started within 72 hours of exposure. The sooner you begin, the more effective it is. Don’t wait for symptoms, PEP is most powerful when started early. Assess your risk and begin treatment without delay.
BOOK APPOINTMENT
Missed the 72-hour window? You can still take action. If it's been less than 20 days since potential exposure, consider getting a NAT (HIV RNA) test. This is an advanced test that detects HIV earlier than standard methods by identifying the virus itself. This allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment, even before antibodies develop. Early detection can make all the difference, so don’t delay testing.
LEARN ABOUT HIV TESTING
The 4th Generation HIV Test is a highly reliable option for early detection, as it identifies both HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen, a protein produced in the early stages of infection. This dual-detection method allows the test to be effective as early as 15 days after exposure, with optimal accuracy between 18 to 45 days. It’s the most commonly recommended screening test for recent exposures.
LEARN ABOUT HIV TESTING
3rd Generation HIV tests detect antibodies the body produces in response to HIV infection. These antibodies typically become detectable around day 23 after exposure, making this test reliable from about the third week onwards. It’s best used between day 21 to day 42, offering accurate results during that window.
LEARN ABOUT HIV TESTING

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Following HIV PEP Exposure initiation, rapid HIV testing confirms the individual’s initial HIV-negative status. Subsequent tests at one month and three months post-treatment serve to confirm treatment efficacy and provide patients with peace of mind. These comprehensive measures underscore our commitment to ensuring patient well-being and long-term health.

In summary, immediate action is paramount in cases of potential HIV exposure. Contact Hisential STD Clinic in Singapore without delay, as PEP represents a crucial intervention in the race against time to prevent HIV transmission.

 

Think ahead with PrEP for peace of mind
PEP is for emergencies after exposure. For ongoing protection, consider PrEP to reduce your risk of HIV before any exposure happens.

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