Postexposure prophylaxis

Postexposure prophylaxis (often abbreviated as PEP) is any preventive medical treatment started immediately after exposure to a pathogen (such as a disease-causing virus), in order to prevent infection by the pathogen and the development of disease.

Types of Postexposure Prophylaxis

PEP can be divided into two main types: occupational PEP and non-occupational PEP.

Occupational PEP

Occupational PEP is used for healthcare workers who have been exposed to material that can transmit HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C. This can occur through needlestick injuries or when mucous membranes or non-intact skin comes into contact with blood, tissue, or other body fluids that are potentially infectious.

Non-occupational PEP

Non-occupational PEP (nPEP) is recommended for those potentially exposed to HIV outside the workplace, such as through sexual intercourse, injection-drug use, or severe human bites.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of PEP for HIV is not entirely clear. Some studies suggest that it is quite effective, while others have found it to be less so. The effectiveness of PEP for Hepatitis B and C is also not well established.

Side Effects

Side effects of PEP can include nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. These side effects can be severe enough to cause some people to stop taking the medication.

See Also

• Pre-exposure prophylaxis
• HIV/AIDS
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C

Postexposure prophylaxis Resources
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