Brief Report: Outcomes of Individuals Using HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis-In-Pocket (“PIP”) for Low-Frequency, High-Risk Exposures in Toronto, Canada

Abstract

Background: HIV postexposure prophylaxis-in-pocket (“PIP”) is a self-initiated, event-driven HIV prevention modality for individuals with a low frequency of HIV exposures. Methods: A cohort of 111 patients using PIP as their primary HIV prevention modality was longitudinally evaluated for PIP self-initiation, HIV and sexual transmitted infections, and switching to other HIV prevention modalities between February 2016 and December 2022. Results: A total of 111 patients had 178.7 cumulative patient-years of PIP use. PIP was self-initiated 69 times by 35 (31.5%) individuals, with 0 HIV seroconversions identified. Thirty four individuals (30.6%) transitioned from PIP to pre-exposure prophylaxis and 33 individuals (29.7%) switched from pre-exposure prophylaxis to PIP. Conclusions: PIP is a useful addition to other pharmacologic HIV prevention tools, and may help prevent infection in those with a lower frequency of unanticipated HIV exposures.