Federal Guidelines
On May 14, 2014, the US Public Health Service released the first comprehensive clinical practice guidelines for PrEP. The guidelines were developed by a federal inter-agency working group led by CDC, and reflect input from providers, HIV patients, partners, and affected communities. The new guidelines:
- Provide clear criteria for determining a person’s HIV risk and indications for PrEP use.
- Require that patients receive HIV testing to confirm negative status before starting PrEP.
- Underscore importance of counseling about adherence and HIV risk reduction, including encouraging condom use for additional protection.
- Recommend regular monitoring of HIV infection status, side effects, adherence, and sexual or injection risk behaviors.
- Include a providers’ supplement with additional materials and tools for use when prescribing PrEP.
The new federal guidelines recommend that PrEP be considered for people who are HIV-negative and at substantial risk for HIV.