Post-exposure prophylaxis

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a short course of antiretroviral medicines taken after a possible HIV exposure to reduce the chance of infection. It should be started as soon as possible and no later than 72 hours after exposure.

Antiretroviral therapy: Treatment that uses medicines to suppress HIV replication. PEP uses antiretroviral medicines to block HIV from establishing infection after exposure.
Needlestick injury: A puncture wound caused by a needle, sometimes involving blood or other potentially infectious material. Occupational needlesticks can prompt urgent assessment for HIV PEP.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis: Antiretroviral medicine taken before potential HIV exposure to reduce the chance of infection. Unlike PEP, PrEP is planned in advance for anticipated or recurring exposure.
HIV prevention: Strategies that reduce the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission. PEP is one intervention within a broader combination of HIV prevention methods.
HIV reverse transcriptase: An HIV enzyme that copies the virus’s RNA genome into DNA. Some medicines used in PEP inhibit this enzyme, interrupting an early step in HIV replication.
Sexual health: A field concerned with physical, emotional, and social well-being in relation to sexuality. Sexual exposure is a common context for assessing whether HIV PEP is indicated.
HIV treatment: Antiretroviral therapy used to control HIV infection in people living with the virus. PEP is a brief preventive course, whereas HIV treatment is ongoing care for confirmed infection.
HIV stigma: Negative beliefs, attitudes, and discrimination directed toward people with or perceived to have HIV. Stigma can discourage timely disclosure of exposure and access to PEP services.
HIV integrase: An HIV enzyme that inserts viral DNA into a host cell’s genome. Integrase inhibitors in PEP can prevent viral DNA from becoming part of a cell’s DNA.
HIV testing: Tests that detect HIV infection or evidence of the body’s response to it. Baseline and follow-up testing help assess infection status around a PEP course.

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