Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV infection

Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2011 Apr;9(4):431-42. doi: 10.1586/eri.11.20.

Abstract

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with antiretrovirals is now widely used worldwide after either occupational contact (with blood or another blood-containing fluid), or nonoccupational contact (mainly sexual or injection-drug use). It is assumed to reduce the risk of HIV transmission by at least 80%, although its efficacy has not been completely proven. Several countries have issued guidelines to help the clinician in their decision to offer PEP and to improve its cost-effectiveness. This article reviews the different antiretroviral combinations used, their safety profile, the recommendations and indications of PEP. The initial evaluation of an exposed individual is presented, as well as the follow-up during and after treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-HIV Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-HIV Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Drug Resistance, Viral
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • HIV / drug effects*
  • HIV / pathogenicity
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Humans
  • Post-Exposure Prophylaxis* / economics
  • Safety
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents