PIP matches PrEP for low-risk HIV

Medscape news story

Post-exposure prophylaxis-in-pocket (PIP) was associated with healthcare savings and improved quality of life outcomes compared to PrEP, based on data presented at CROI 2026.

Although daily PrEP is effective for HIV prevention, treatment gaps remain for individuals reluctant to start PrEP, or those whose infrequent exposures (defined as one to four per year) make them less than ideal candidates for PrEP.

PIP offers an alternative strategy in the form of a 28-day course of HIV medication for low-risk individuals to keep at home and initiate if needed. PIP is now endorsed by the World Health Organization and allows individuals to start treatment themselves within 72 hours of exposure, eliminating the need for an emergency department or clinic visit. However, real-world data comparing PIP to standard PrEP are lacking.

Read the full news story here.View all Medscape reports from CROI 2026