HIV PEP in Kathmandu: Emergency HIV Prevention Within 72 Hours

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, through a condom that broke, unprotected sex, a shared needle, or a needlestick injury at work, time matters more than anything else. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a short course of HIV medicines that can greatly reduce the chance of infection, but only if it is started quickly. At Medex Neo Clinic in Naxal, Kathmandu, our doctors provide confidential, judgement-free assessment for possible HIV exposure, guidance on PEP, and the HIV testing needed before and after treatment.

What Is HIV PEP?

PEP stands for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a 28-day course of antiretroviral medicines taken after a possible exposure to HIV. The medicines work by stopping the virus from establishing itself in the body during the first days after exposure. PEP is an emergency measure. It is not a replacement for condoms, regular testing, or PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) for people with ongoing risk.

PEP vs PrEP: What's the Difference?

PEP is taken after a single possible exposure, for 28 days. PrEP is taken before possible exposure, on an ongoing basis, by people who are at continuing risk of HIV. If you find yourself needing PEP more than once, ask our doctor whether PrEP may be a better option for you.

Who Should Consider PEP?

A doctor will assess your risk based on what happened, but PEP is commonly considered after:

• Unprotected vaginal or anal sex, or a condom that broke or slipped off, with a partner who is HIV-positive or whose status is unknown
• Sexual assault
• Sharing needles, syringes, or other injecting equipment
• A needlestick or sharps injury, or a blood splash to the eyes, mouth, or broken skin, common among doctors, nurses, lab staff, and cleaners in healthcare settings

PEP is usually not needed after exposures with very low or no risk, such as kissing, sharing food, touching, or contact with saliva, sweat, or urine without visible blood. If you are unsure, it is always better to ask a doctor quickly than to guess.

Why the 72-Hour Window Matters

After exposure, HIV takes a short time to spread and establish infection. PEP is most effective when it interrupts this process early. Starting within the first 24 hours is better than starting at 48 hours, and PEP is generally not recommended once more than 72 hours have passed. If you are past 72 hours, you should still see a doctor for testing, counselling, and follow-up care.

How the Process Works at Medex Neo Clinic

Step 1: Contact Us Immediately
Call or WhatsApp us, or walk in to the clinic in Naxal. Tell our team you are seeking help after a possible HIV exposure so you can be seen as a priority.

Step 2: Confidential Risk Assessment
A doctor will ask, privately and without judgement, about the type of exposure, when it happened, and what is known about the other person's HIV status. This helps decide whether PEP is recommended.

Step 3: Baseline Testing
A baseline HIV test is done before starting PEP. Your doctor may also recommend tests for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, other STIs, kidney function, and pregnancy where relevant.

Step 4: Starting PEP
If PEP is recommended, our doctor will prescribe the appropriate regimen or guide you to where it can be obtained without delay, including government ART centres where PEP may be available free of charge. The first dose should be taken as soon as possible.

Step 5: Completing the 28-Day Course
PEP must be taken every day, at about the same time, for the full 28 days. Missing doses or stopping early can reduce how well it works.

Step 6: Follow-Up Testing
Follow-up HIV testing is recommended after you finish the course, typically around 4 to 6 weeks and again at about 3 months after the exposure, to confirm your status.

Side Effects of PEP

Modern PEP regimens are generally well tolerated. Some people experience mild nausea, tiredness, headache, or stomach upset in the first few days, which usually settle. Do not stop the medicine on your own. If side effects bother you, speak to your doctor, who can advise or adjust treatment.

Protecting Yourself and Others During PEP

• Use condoms during sex until your follow-up HIV tests confirm you are negative
• Avoid donating blood until follow-up testing is complete
• Do not share needles or injecting equipment
• Tell your doctor about any other medicines or supplements you take, as some can interact with PEP

Privacy and Confidentiality

We understand that seeking help after a possible HIV exposure can feel stressful or embarrassing. Your consultation, test results, and personal information are handled confidentially by our clinic and shared with you directly. We do not disclose your information to a third party without your authorization, except where required by law.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I start PEP?
As soon as possible, ideally within hours of the exposure, and no later than 72 hours.

Is PEP 100% effective?
No medicine is 100% effective, but PEP greatly reduces the risk of HIV infection when started early and taken correctly for the full 28 days. Follow-up testing is still essential.

Can I get tested for HIV the same day as the exposure?
Yes, and you should. A same-day test shows your status before the exposure, which is needed before starting PEP. It cannot show whether the recent exposure caused an infection; that is what follow-up testing is for.

Is PEP available free in Nepal?
PEP may be available free of charge at government ART centres and some public hospitals. Our doctors can assess you, arrange your testing, and guide you to the fastest way to get PEP started.

I'm a healthcare worker and had a needlestick injury. What should I do?
Wash the area immediately with soap and running water (do not squeeze or scrub), report the incident to your workplace, and seek medical assessment for PEP right away.

What if more than 72 hours have passed?
PEP is generally not recommended after 72 hours, but you should still see a doctor for HIV and STI testing, counselling, and a follow-up testing plan.

Do I need a referral?
No referral is required. You can contact us directly or walk in.

Get Help Today

If you think you have been exposed to HIV, please do not wait. Contact Medex Neo Clinic for a confidential consultation and HIV testing in Kathmandu. Our team will help you understand your risk and the next steps.

☎️ Call: +977 9802345336 | 💬 WhatsApp: +977 9802345336 | 🌐 Visit: medex.com.np

📍 Location: Opposite Naxal Bhat Bhateni Supermarket, Thirbam Road, Naxal, Kathmandu

⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Everyday