HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after occupational and non-occupational exposure

There is no solid evidence for the efficacy of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). However, animal studies, data from mother-to-child transmission studies and one retrospective case-control study in health care workers support the use of PEP. The maximal time between exposure and the start of PEP, and the duration of PEP are based on animal studies. The frequent and potentially serious side effects of the antiretroviral drugs of the PEP regimen warrant that the risk of transmission in an individual case should be balanced against these side effects.