HIV Pep (Post Exposure Prophylaxis) Clinic
PEP Overview
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a medication that helps prevent the development of HIV infection after potential exposure to the virus. PEP should only be used in emergency situations and must be initiated within 72 hours of exposure.
The HIV Testing Procedures and Methods
HIV can lead to serious long-term health issues if left untreated. If you suspect you may have been exposed to HIV, you can choose between two main testing methods:
- Conventional Laboratory-Based Blood Test: Results are typically available in 2 days.
- Rapid HIV Test: Provides results within 20 minutes.
Anonymous HIV testing is also available at our clinic for those who wish to protect their identity.
Testing Windows
We offer both 3rd and 4th generation test kits:
- 3rd Generation Test Kits: 4-12 week testing window.
- 4th Generation Test Kits: 14–28-day testing window.
Our rapid HIV testing delivers results in 20 minutes or less, significantly alleviating the anxiety of waiting for test outcomes. With our post-exposure prophylaxis in Singapore, you can feel confident knowing that you’ll receive timely and reliable information to help you navigate the next steps in your health journey.
How to Test for HIV at PEP clinic ?
The type of test offered depends on the time elapsed since potential exposure. HIV antibodies can take up to 12 weeks to appear in the bloodstream, making early detection difficult. While signs of infection may emerge around four weeks, it can take longer.
We recommend getting tested at our clinic as soon as possible after exposure, followed by a follow-up test two to four weeks later. This approach helps confirm results and monitor any changes. If you believe you were exposed more than three months ago, please let us know so we can adjust the testing. A negative result after four weeks typically indicates a low likelihood of infection; however, we still encourage you to come to our PEP clinic for a rapid HIV test.
Get Tested Today – Results are CONFIDENTIAL
It is crucial to get tested as soon as possible. At Anteh Dispensary, we offer anonymous post exposure prophylaxis HIV treatment. Early treatment can help maintain health and prevent the spread of the virus. If diagnosed, early treatment is essential and can significantly improve health outcomes.
Just walk into our clinic and let our staff know you’re here for HIV screening. No personal identification is required; you’ll receive a number to ensure your confidentiality. We operate on a walk-in basis, so no phone bookings are necessary.
We also offer PEP and PrEP medications at our clinic. Since the 1980s, we have been one of Singapore’s earliest government-designated clinics for anonymous HIV screening.
What Situations Would HIV PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Be Required?
PEP HIV in Singapore is recommended in Singapore under the following circumstances:
- High-risk sexual exposure: This includes unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse or receptive oral intercourse with ejaculation, especially with a partner known to be HIV-infected or from high-risk groups (e.g., commercial sex workers, IV drug users, men who have sex with men/bisexual men).
- Needle sharing or contamination: This includes exposure to contaminated needles or blades, such as needle-stick injuries.
- Exposure to contaminated fluids: This includes contact with contaminated blood, semen, or genital fluids through open wounds, cuts, sores, or ulcers.
Immediate action is crucial in these situations. Timely intervention at post exposure prophylaxis clinics in Singapore is vital to maximize the efficacy of the treatment.
Types of Exposure and Estimated Risk of HIV Transmission
| Type of Exposure | Estimated Risk of HIV Transmission |
| Blood Transfusion | Nearly 90% risk if the blood is contaminated. |
| Perinatal Transmission | 15-45% risk without intervention, from mother to child |
| Receptive Anal Intercourse | Approximately 1.38% per act. |
| Receptive Vaginal Intercourse | Around 0.08% per act. |
| Needlestick Injury | About 0.3% risk. |
| Sharing Injection Equipment | Around 0.67% per act. |
When Should HIV PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Be Initiated?
HIV PEP should be started as soon as possible, ideally within 2 hours and no later than 72 hours post-exposure. The post-exposure prophylaxis HIV treatment involves a 28-day course of antiretroviral medications, which must be taken consistently. Early initiation is crucial for the treatment’s success, highlighting the need for prompt medical attention at PEP HIV clinics in Singapore.
What Are the Side Effects of HIV Pep Treatment?
Post exposure prophylaxis hiv treatment can have side effects, although they are usually manageable. Common side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Insomnia
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Difficulty sleeping
- Feeling tired or weak
- Fatigue
These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but it is important to consult with healthcare providers if they persist or worsen. Clinics providing PEP treatment in Singapore offer support to manage any adverse reactions effectively.
What Tests Are Required Before Starting HIV PEP?
Before starting HIV PEP treatment, several tests are necessary to ensure the treatment’s appropriateness and safety:
- HIV test: To confirm the absence of an existing HIV infection.
- Hepatitis B and C tests: To check for co-infections that may require additional treatment.
- Kidney and liver function tests: To ensure that the organs can handle the medications used in PEP.
- Pregnancy test: For women of childbearing age, to consider any potential risks to the fetus.
Frequently Asked Questions
HIV tests can be done anonymously without having to provide any personally identifiable details. Anonymous HIV testing is open to all patients regardless of race or nationality.
The HIV Antibody Test is the only way to determine if a person has HIV. The development of antibodies can take up to 3 months and the test detects the presence of antibodies released by the body in response to the HIV virus.
Anteh Dispensary offers a 30-day Medication regime that will be prescribed by the doctor.
PEP can lower the risk of HIV infection by approximately 80% if begun immediately after exposure. Adherence to the complete course of PEP is key to the intervention’s success.
PEP is recommended for anyone who has had high-risk exposure to HIV within the last 72 hours. This includes individuals who have had unprotected sex with an HIV-positive partner, shared needles, or been exposed to HIV through blood or body fluids.
PEP involves taking a combination of antiretroviral medications daily for 28 days. The specific regimen may vary based on individual circumstances and the type of exposure.
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as headaches, difficulty sleeping, and fatigue.
PEP is available at our clinic during operating hours. For emergencies outside of operating hours, please visit the nearest emergency department.