PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of emergency HIV medication. It must be started within 72 hours of a high-risk exposure (e.g., a condom break with a partner of unknown status), but the sooner you start it, the more effective it is. In Norway, it is free and accessible through the Legevakt (urgent care) system.
🚨 Where to Go Right Now
Do not wait for a convenient appointment. Your route depends entirely on the time of day.
| Time / Day | Where to Go | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Anytime | Call 116 117 (national Legevakt line) | Call before going in person. They will direct you to the nearest facility with PEP in stock. |
Major Legevakt Locations
- Oslo: Oslo Legevakt (Trondheimsveien 233). Open 24 hours. During regular hours, Olafiaklinikken (Trondheimsveien 2) may also provide PEP — call ahead.
- Bergen: Legevakten Bergen (Solheimsgaten 9).
- Trondheim: Trondheim Legevakt (Mauritz Hansens gate 4).
- Stavanger: Stavanger Legevakt (Armauer Hansens vei 30).
Do not try to contact your fastlege (regular GP). Fastleger cannot prescribe PEP outside of scheduled care. Go directly to the Legevakt or call 116 117 first. Note: for life-threatening emergencies, call 113.
🗣️ Navigating Triage
When calling 116 117 or speaking to the triage nurse, explain the situation clearly.
- Use the terminology: "Jeg har hatt risiko for HIV-smitte. Jeg trenger PEP — posteksponeringsprofylakse." (I've been at risk of HIV infection. I need PEP — post-exposure prophylaxis.)
- State the timeline: "Jeg er innen 72 timer." (I'm within 72 hours). Tell them exactly how long ago it was.
- Be direct about the exposure: Explain exactly what happened (e.g., receptive anal sex without a condom) to help the doctor assess the risk.
The Starter Pack: The Legevakt will issue a starter pack and a prescription for the full 28-day course. The follow-up is mandatory. You must complete all 28 days of the daily course. Do not miss doses or stop early.
💊 The Medication: What to Expect
The standard Norwegian PEP regimen usually consists of Truvada (or a generic equivalent) taken alongside an integrase inhibitor — typically dolutegravir (Tivicay).
- It is a strict regimen: PEP is not a morning-after pill. It is a mandatory 28-day course, and you cannot miss doses.
- Side effects are manageable: You may experience nausea, fatigue, or diarrhea, though not everyone does. The clinic will often prescribe anti-sickness medication alongside your PEP.
- Do not stop: Never stop taking PEP without speaking to a doctor first.
💶 Cost
- Residents: PEP is free in Norway — covered as emergency smittevern (infection control) care. Norwegian health card or national insurance covers it.
- EU/EEA visitors with EHIC: Emergency care is covered at Norwegian rates.
- Non-EU visitors: Emergency care is provided; you may be billed and should claim via travel insurance.
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