HIV prevention · Same-day appointment · Within 72 hours
Emergency HIV prevention (PEP) in Lagos
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of oral HIV medicine that can stop HIV taking hold after a possible exposure. It must start within 72 hours, and the sooner the better. Our doctors assess you, test you and prescribe oral PEP the same day at our Akoka clinic.
Come in today. We are open Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Call or WhatsApp ahead so a doctor is ready for you. Outside our hours, go to the nearest hospital so you do not lose time: PEP does not work after 72 hours.
When PEP is used
PEP is for a one-off possible exposure to HIV in the last 3 days, such as:
A condom broke or was not used
With a partner who has HIV, or whose HIV status you do not know.
Sexual assault
PEP is part of care after an assault. Our doctor also checks for other infections and pregnancy risk, and can tell you where to get further support.
Needle-stick or shared needles
An injury from a used needle, or sharing injecting equipment.
Blood contact
Someone else's blood on broken skin or in the eyes or mouth, for example at work.
Time matters
How it works
Same-day appointment
Call, WhatsApp or book online and tell us it is urgent. We fit PEP visits in on the same day.
Doctor's assessment and tests
The doctor asks what happened and when, then does a baseline HIV test. Depending on the exposure you may also have a hepatitis B test, an STI screen and a pregnancy test.
Prescription
If PEP is right for you, the doctor prescribes a 28-day oral course, explains how to take it and what side effects to expect, and talks through emergency contraception if there is a pregnancy risk.
Follow-up
An HIV test after you finish the course and again at three months, plus a repeat STI check. If you are at ongoing risk, the doctor can move you on to PrEP.
Good to know
- Finish all 28 days. Stopping early makes PEP much less likely to work, even if you feel fine.
- Use condoms until your follow-up tests are clear, so you do not pass on an infection you do not yet know about.
- PEP prevents HIV only. Other STIs and pregnancy need their own tests and care, which the doctor covers at the same visit.
- Side effects are usually mild. Tiredness, nausea or a headache in the first days are common and usually settle. Tell the doctor about anything that worries you.
- We do not treat HIV. If a test is positive, the doctor explains the result and refers you to an HIV treatment centre.
PEP questions
How soon do I need to start PEP?
As soon as possible, and within 72 hours of the exposure. Starting within 24 hours gives the best protection. After 72 hours PEP is no longer recommended.
Do I need an HIV test before PEP?
Yes. A baseline HIV test is done at the visit. PEP is for people who are HIV-negative at the time of the exposure.
Does PEP always work?
Started early and taken for the full 28 days, PEP is highly effective, but no prevention is 100%. That is why you have a follow-up HIV test after the course and again at three months.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Your visit, tests and prescription are confidential, and nothing is shared without your written consent.
It has been more than 3 days. What should I do?
PEP will not help now, but testing will. The doctor will tell you when an HIV test gives a reliable answer, and whether PrEP makes sense for you going forward.
How much does PEP cost?
A consultation fee applies, plus the tests. Current prices are on our pricing page. Ask the doctor about the cost of the medicine itself.
Possible HIV exposure? Come in today.
Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM, at 52 Sholanke Street, off Chemist Junction, Akoka, Lagos. Call ahead so a doctor is ready.
Quick answers
Where can I get emergency HIV prevention (PEP) near Yaba or Akoka?
At Mascot Healthcare, 52 Sholanke Street, off Chemist Junction, Akoka, Lagos. We are a short keke ride from the Unilag gate and close to Yaba, Bariga, Shomolu and Gbagada. Directions from your area.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. Consultations are by appointment, so please book before you come. Book online, call 0816 586 6252 or WhatsApp 0903 185 8761. Same-day slots are often available.
How much does emergency HIV prevention (PEP) cost?
Prices change, so we don't print them on this page. The current price is on our live price list, or call 0816 586 6252 to ask.
When are you open?
Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM. We are closed on Sundays and Nigerian public holidays.
Can I come here in an emergency?
No. We don't handle emergencies. For chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke, heavy bleeding or any other emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 112.
Do you accept HMO or health insurance?
Not at the moment. You pay at the clinic by cash, card, POS or bank transfer.
Last updated 13 November 2026.