If you've had a potential HIV exposure in Norway, PEP (HIV post-exposure prophylaxis) is free and accessible through the Legevakt (emergency/urgent care) system. Act within 72 hours — the sooner the better.
IMPORTANT: Norwegian Emergency Number
Norway's ambulance number is 113 — not 112 (which also works but may route differently). For life-threatening emergencies: 113.
Call First: 116 117
116 117 is the national Legevakt telephone line (after-hours GP and urgent care). Call this number before going to the Legevakt in person — tell them you need PEP for HIV and they can confirm the nearest facility that stocks the medication and direct you appropriately.
Why call first: PEP medication is held at the Legevakt, but smaller Legevakt locations may need to confirm availability. The 116 117 line can direct you to the right place and alert the facility that you're coming.
Oslo Legevakt
Oslo Legevakt Address: Storgata 40, Oslo Open: 24 hours
Tell the triage nurse or doctor: "Jeg har hatt risiko for HIV-smitte. Jeg trenger PEP — posteksponeringsprofylakse. Jeg er innen 72 timer." (I've been at risk of HIV infection. I need PEP — post-exposure prophylaxis. I'm within 72 hours.)
During regular hours, Olafiaklinikken (Trondheimsveien 2, Oslo) may also be able to provide PEP if the exposure is recent — call ahead on a working day.
Outside Oslo
Call 116 117 to find your nearest Legevakt with PEP available. Every city and many towns have a Legevakt. For cities:
- Bergen: Legevakten Bergen (Solheimsgaten 9, open 24h)
- Trondheim: Trondheim Legevakt (Mauritz Hansens gate 4)
- Stavanger: Stavanger Legevakt (Armauer Hansens vei 30)
If you're in a rural area or small town: call 116 117 first — they will assess urgency and route you appropriately, which may mean transfer to a larger facility or prescription delivery.
The 72-Hour Rule
PEP must begin within 72 hours of exposure. Starting within 24 hours is significantly more effective. Do not wait to assess the situation. If there's meaningful doubt about your exposure risk, go and let the doctor assess.
Cost
PEP is free in Norway — covered as emergency smittevern (infection control) care. Norwegian health card or national insurance covers it. EU/EEA citizens with EHIC card: emergency care at Norwegian rates. Non-EU visitors: emergency care is provided; you may be billed and should claim via travel insurance.
After PEP
Complete the full 28-day course. Test HIV at 6 weeks and 3 months after exposure. If PEP reflects ongoing risk — transition to PrEP.