What is the post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) recommendation for HIV exposure?

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a crucial intervention for individuals who have potentially been exposed to HIV but are not currently infected. The recommendation involves the use of antiretroviral medication to reduce the chances of HIV infection when initiated shortly after exposure.

The correct answer, which involves taking three drugs for a duration of four weeks, is based on clinical guidelines that emphasize the importance of a comprehensive treatment regimen. Using three antiretroviral drugs increases the likelihood of effectively suppressing potential viral replication and reducing the risk of infection from the exposure.

A duration of four weeks is also considered optimal because it aligns with the necessary time frame to ensure that the body has fully processed the medication, providing the highest chances of preventing HIV from establishing an infection. Administering a longer course enhances the chances of effectively combating any viral exposure, especially given the window period for HIV testing and the time it takes for the virus to potentially establish itself in the body.

In this case, the combination of three drugs for four weeks aligns with established clinical protocols and evidence-based practices for PEP, making it the most effective recommendation for managing the risk of HIV after potential exposure.