What is the role of PrEP and PEP in HIV prevention?

• A. PrEP is for HIV-negative individuals at high risk; PEP started within 72 hours after exposure and continued for 28 days.
• B. PrEP is for HIV-positive individuals; PEP is not time-bound.
• C. PrEP should be started after exposure; PEP lasts for 14 days.
• D. PrEP and PEP are interchangeable and can be used after any exposure.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that PrEP and PEP serve different prevention roles based on timing and HIV status. PrEP protects people who are HIV-negative but at ongoing high risk; taken regularly, it builds protective drug levels so HIV infection is greatly reduced if exposure occurs. PEP is a post-exposure measure: it’s started as soon as possible after a potential exposure (ideally within 72 hours) and continued daily for 28 days to prevent infection after the exposure.

This description aligns with best-practice guidelines: PrEP is not for people who already have HIV, and PEP is not unlimited or used after every exposure. They are not interchangeable; PrEP provides ongoing protection before exposure, while PEP is a temporary, post-exposure option.