Post exposure prophylaxis of HIV is?
**Core Concept**
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency medication taken after potential HIV exposure to prevent the virus from establishing a permanent infection in the body. This concept relies on the pharmacological principle of antiretroviral therapy, where specific medications are used to inhibit the replication of the HIV virus.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer involves a combination of antiretroviral medications that are effective against HIV. PEP typically includes a combination of two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and one protease inhibitor (PI). This combination works by inhibiting the reverse transcription of HIV RNA into DNA and the maturation of viral particles. The combination of medications used in PEP is chosen based on the individual's HIV status and the type of exposure they experienced.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the type of medication used in PEP. While antiretroviral therapy involves medications that target different stages of the HIV life cycle, the term "antiretroviral medications" is too broad and does not accurately describe PEP.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the combination of medications used in PEP. While lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), it is not used alone in PEP.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the combination of medications used in PEP. While zidovudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), it is not used alone in PEP.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the combination of medications used in PEP. While raltegravir is an integrase inhibitor, it is not typically used in PEP.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that PEP must be initiated within 72 hours after potential HIV exposure. The sooner PEP is started, the more effective it is in preventing HIV infection.
**Correct Answer: B. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and emtricitabine (FTC) are often used in combination with either dolutegravir (DTG) or raltegravir (RAL) for post-exposure prophylaxis of HIV.**