HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis: Clinical implications and real-world effectiveness

The use of tenofovir-emtricitabine as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) represents the latest strategy to prevent the acquisition of HIV by uninfected individuals. Despite clinical trials exhibiting significant risk reductions with PrEP, several limitations may hinder its real-world effectiveness. PrEP functions as one component of a comprehensive prevention program, which should also include intensive counseling on the importance of adherence, reduction of high-risk behaviors, and continued use of traditional preventative methods. Additionally, the greatest impact of PrEP, both clinically and financially, will likely arise from careful application in select high-risk populations. If properly implemented, PrEP has the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of new HIV infections.