I got pep and it was covered by insurance but reading all the side effects and not sure if I should take. 

My exposure was seeing to high end CSWs for what was oral sex and I tried to penetrate with protection but couldn’t stay hard enough. I was drunk and the next day the csw told me we didn’t have sex only oral. A Dr prescribed me pep- should I be taking it? Within the first 24 hours. 

Congratulations on having only safe sex with your commercial sex partner(s) -- i.e. oral sex and condoms for vaginal or anal sex (at least by intention). However, we do not provide direct medical care, and we do our best to avoid conflicting with users' personal health care providers. What I can say is that "high end" CSWs generally have low rates of HIV and other STIs (typically they are health conscious, have safe sex, get tested regularly, and have clients at low risk themselves (men like you). In your particular situation, it is relevant that there has never been a proved case of HIV transmission oral to penis. For these reasons, the large majority of doctors and clincs with substantial experience in STI/HIV management would not have prescribed PEP in this situation; and I certainly would not have provided it if you have come to my clinic. In fact, I would have refused to prescribe PEP even if you requested it.

On account of this particular exposure, I would not even recommend HIV or STI testing. On the other hand, it sounds like you may have been having regular sex with similar outcomes, you could consider routine STI/HIV testing from time to time -- i.e. urine testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia, and HIV and syphilis blood tests. But this definitely is optional on account of any single exposure of this type.

You might discuss these issues with the doctor who prescribed PEP then decide whether or not to take it as prescribed.

I hope these comments are helpful. Let me know if anything isnt' clear.

HHH, MD

Thanks again!