Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Prescribing Notes:

• Antiretroviral therapy for chronic HIV infection should be initiated or altered only with the help of specialist advice available from a local HIV unit or sexual health service.
• Antiretroviral therapy following an inoculation injury (post-exposure prophylaxis or PEP) if indicated should be commenced if possible within 2 hours and up to 72 hours after injury.
• All treatments for HIV should be restricted to use by HIV specialists only.
• Combination products may be used where considered appropriate to aid compliance.
• HIV treatment should be prescribed in line with BHIVA Guidelines and recommendations from the SMC and NICE Multiple Technology Assessments.
• HIV therapies have a narrow therapeutic range therefore patient adherence must be supported and drug interactions avoided.
• When prescribing concurrent medication drug interactions should be checked at the HIV Drug Interactions website.