Pharmacists and the next generation of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis

The use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has curtailed transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in most industrialized nations. Despite the availability of PrEP, HIV infections continue to occur. Access and adherence are major limitations to PrEP. Long-acting injectable antiretroviral agents are now being added to the HIV armamentarium. Long-acting agents offer the advantage of less frequent dosing with intramuscular administration versus oral dosing. Cost, injection site pain, and needle hesitancy may be detriments to the use of these agents in certain patients. More studies are needed to completely discern the role of various products and future long-acting agents as options for PrEP. Even when we consider their limitations, long-acting agents may provide an eventual opportunity to transform the delivery of PrEP. Pharmacists should be aware of the potential impact of PrEP and the advantages and disadvantages of these new long-acting agents. In addition, pharmacists should proactively advocate for and contribute to PrEP expansion efforts.