Prophylaxis of HIV infection

Br Med Bull. 2005 Oct 5:73-74:93-105. doi: 10.1093/bmb/ldh053. Print 2005.

Abstract

The number of people infected with HIV continues to increase relentlessly. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following exposure to HIV infection may prevent established HIV infection. Such intervention is supported by biological plausibility and limited data from animal and human studies. Antiretroviral prophylaxis is associated with significant side effects and the risk should be weighed against the potential benefits. PEP should be considered after significant occupational and non-occupational exposures. However, PEP is not suitable for individuals with repeated high-risk behaviour who are not willing to adhere to risk reduction practices. Primary prevention strategies remain the mainstay for control of the HIV epidemic and cannot be replaced by PEP. Guidance for PEP following exposure to HIV infection is available in many countries worldwide.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use
  • Disease Outbreaks / prevention & control
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects
  • Female
  • HIV Fusion Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Humans
  • Occupational Diseases / prevention & control
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects
  • Protease Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Risk Factors
  • Risk-Taking

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • HIV Fusion Inhibitors
  • Protease Inhibitors
  • Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors