Trends in HIV postexposure prophylaxis prescription and compliance after sexual exposure in Amsterdam, 2000-2004

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate trends in HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) requests after sexual exposure, compliance, and outcome of follow-up HIV tests.

Study design: The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of all HIV PEP requests after sexual exposure between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2004, in Amsterdam.

Results: In 5 years, there was a very modest increase in PEP requests, of which most (75%) came from men who have sex with men (MSM). Although 70% reported side effects, 85% completed their PEP course. Sexual assault victims less often completed their course (odds ratio [OR] = 0.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.05-0.4, P = 0.001). People who used HIV PEP more often complied with follow-up tests than people who did not use PEP (OR = 3.5; 95% CI = 1.6-7.9, P = 0.002). One HIV seroconversion was found caused by a later exposure than that for which PEP was given.

Conclusions: Despite a widely available PEP program in Amsterdam, the number of PEP requests remained low. Most people completed their PEP course; compliance with follow-up HIV testing was high.