Preventing HIV infection after a potential sexual exposure

Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is now considered the standard of care after potential sexual HIV exposure. Appropriate antiretroviral drug regimens should be initiated as quickly as possible after unprotected receptive or insertive anal or vaginal intercourse, and possibly receptive oral intercourse with ejaculation, with an at-risk partner. PEP also includes counseling on risk reduction and adherence to therapy and referrals to mental health and substance abuse services as appropriate. Candidates for PEP should be tested at baseline for HIV antibodies, and HIV antibody testing should be performed serially until 6 months after the exposure.