Trends in HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Prescription and Compliance After Sexual Exposure in Amsterdam, 2000–2004

Abstract

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