Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)

Definition

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a medical treatment that is used to prevent HIV infection after potential exposure to the virus. This approach involves taking antiretroviral medications within 72 hours of exposure, with the goal of significantly reducing the likelihood of HIV transmission. PEP is a crucial intervention for individuals who may have been exposed to HIV through various means, such as unprotected sex, needle sharing, or occupational exposure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. PEP must be initiated within 72 hours after potential HIV exposure for it to be effective, making prompt medical attention critical.
2. The standard course of PEP usually lasts for 28 days, during which the individual must consistently take prescribed antiretroviral medications.
3. PEP is not 100% effective; its success depends on several factors, including the timing of treatment initiation and adherence to the medication schedule.
4. Individuals at higher risk of repeated exposures may benefit from pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is a different preventive strategy.
5. PEP does not substitute for other preventive measures against HIV, such as condom use or regular testing.

Review Questions

• How does post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) work to prevent HIV infection after exposure?
  • Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) works by administering antiretroviral medications shortly after potential exposure to HIV. The medications target the virus, preventing it from replicating and establishing an infection in the body. To be effective, PEP must be started within 72 hours of exposure and taken consistently for 28 days, which enhances its ability to significantly reduce the risk of developing HIV.
• Evaluate the importance of timely initiation of PEP following potential HIV exposure and the implications if treatment is delayed.
  • Timely initiation of PEP is critical because the effectiveness of the treatment diminishes significantly if not started within 72 hours after potential exposure. Delaying treatment can lead to higher chances of HIV establishing an infection in the body, which would ultimately require long-term management through antiretroviral therapy. Moreover, individuals who miss this window may face severe health risks associated with HIV infection and may inadvertently transmit the virus to others.
• Assess how post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) fits into a broader strategy for managing HIV prevention and treatment.
  • Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) plays a vital role in a comprehensive strategy for managing HIV prevention and treatment by acting as an emergency intervention following potential exposure. It complements other preventive measures like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and regular testing, promoting overall public health. By reducing new infections through timely intervention, PEP helps lower the incidence of HIV in communities, supporting efforts to achieve better health outcomes and maintain control over the spread of this virus.

Related terms

HIV:

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the virus that causes AIDS and attacks the body's immune system.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART): A treatment regimen consisting of medications used to manage HIV infection and improve the immune system's health.

AIDS:

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, the final stage of HIV infection characterized by severe immune system damage and opportunistic infections.