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What Causes Red Pimples While On PEP Regime?
Question: Hi Doctor, I am on night 13 of PEP (Truvada and Efavirenz) which I began 24 hours after a condom breakage during sex (for maybe 3 minutes) with a partner of unknown history.
Two days ago small red pimples or folliculitis like spots appeared on my lower legs, then today I noticed the same on my legs, back and bottom. No itch.
I don't know if this a reaction to the PEP regime or something worse.
Note, today I resumed gym after a 3 week layoff - 18,000 kgs over 35 minutes.
I also take symbicort in low dose (2-3 per day), as well as daily collagen and turmeric capsules.
Should I maintain PEP?
Any guidance would be of great comfort, thank you.
Two days ago small red pimples or folliculitis like spots appeared on my lower legs, then today I noticed the same on my legs, back and bottom. No itch.
I don't know if this a reaction to the PEP regime or something worse.
Note, today I resumed gym after a 3 week layoff - 18,000 kgs over 35 minutes.
I also take symbicort in low dose (2-3 per day), as well as daily collagen and turmeric capsules.
Should I maintain PEP?
Any guidance would be of great comfort, thank you.
Brief Answer:
Maintain PEP!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about this condom breakage that you had and the rash that you have reported. This rash is probably related to the medications you are currently taking. However, it is a minor side effect and does not require that you discontinue your PEP unless something else more concerning coms up. There is no reason to make any other adjustments to your treatment regimen at this time.
Please, I understand you took measures to protect yourself but unfortunately the condom broke down. Having a stable sexual partner whose past is not hidden from you or who would not deny to help you when an accident occurs and more information is required is of prime importance. I hope you consider doing so and of course you know the anxiety that this has caused you already.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thank you so much for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Maintain PEP!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about this condom breakage that you had and the rash that you have reported. This rash is probably related to the medications you are currently taking. However, it is a minor side effect and does not require that you discontinue your PEP unless something else more concerning coms up. There is no reason to make any other adjustments to your treatment regimen at this time.
Please, I understand you took measures to protect yourself but unfortunately the condom broke down. Having a stable sexual partner whose past is not hidden from you or who would not deny to help you when an accident occurs and more information is required is of prime importance. I hope you consider doing so and of course you know the anxiety that this has caused you already.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thank you so much for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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