APII243881243 - CME/CMLE - Pre and Post Exposure Prophylactic Treatment for HIV-APII243881243

APII243881243 - Educational Activity

Pdf Summary

This educational commentary by Tammy Carter, PhD, focuses on HIV prevention strategies, particularly pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). The HIV epidemic began in the U.S. in 1981 and continues to affect millions globally, with approximately 1.2 million people living with HIV in the U.S. as of 2022. HIV primarily targets CD4 T-helper cells, weakening the immune system and progressing to AIDS if untreated. There are two main HIV types: HIV-1, more common and severe, and HIV-2.<br /><br />Current HIV screening involves detecting antibodies and antigens through rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), ELISA, chemiluminescence assays, and confirmatory tests like differentiation immunoassays and molecular PCR assays for early detection. These testing advancements help identify infections accurately and early.<br /><br />PrEP, approved by the FDA in 2012, involves daily intake of antiretroviral drugs—mainly a combination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and emtricitabine (FTC) known as Truvada—to prevent HIV infection in high-risk HIV-negative individuals. PrEP inhibits reverse transcriptase, blocking viral replication if exposure occurs.<br /><br />PEP is an emergency treatment started within 72 hours of potential HIV exposure and involves a 28-day regimen of three antiretroviral drugs, combining Truvada with an integrase inhibitor like raltegravir or dolutegravir. This combination prevents viral DNA integration into host cells, reducing infection risk post-exposure.<br /><br />Common side effects for PrEP include blisters, body aches, and respiratory symptoms, while PEP side effects include nausea, fatigue, headaches, and liver enzyme elevation.<br /><br />Together, PrEP and PEP significantly reduce HIV transmission risk and have transformed HIV management from a fatal illness to a chronic, manageable condition. Adherence to these prophylactic treatments is vital to controlling the HIV epidemic and improving quality of life for those at risk.

Keywords

HIV prevention

Pre-exposure prophylaxis

Post-exposure prophylaxis

HIV epidemic

CD4 T-helper cells

HIV screening tests

Antiretroviral drugs

Truvada

HIV transmission

HIV management