Post-exposure prophylaxis of hepatitis B

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis of Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver disease that is caused by the virus, hepatitis B virus (HBV). In some cases, after HBV exposure, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may be necessary to prevent the infection. The goal of PEP is to prevent HBV infection by providing patients with medications that inhibit the spread of HBV.

HBV PEP is recommended for those who have been exposed to the virus through contact with HBV-infected blood, sexual contact with an HBV-infected individual, or accidental needle stick or puncture from a known or unknown HBV source. PEP should be started as soon as possible after the exposure, as the risk of HBV increases the longer the virus remains in the body.

The recommended PEP regimen for HBV consists of a combination of two medications:

• Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG), which provides antibodies to fight off the HBV virus.
• Antiviral medication, such as lamivudine, telbivudine, or adefovir, which helps to stop the replication of the virus.

HBIG should be administered as soon as possible after the exposure, within a few hours or days depending on the particular situation. The antiviral medication should be started one to two weeks after the exposure. In some cases, a third medication, such as entecavir or tenofovir, may be added for additional protection.

It is important to note that PEP is not guaranteed to prevent infection and may cause side effects. Furthermore, it is important to receive regular testing for HBV after the exposure, even if PEP was administered. Additionally, those who are exposed to HBV should be vaccinated against the virus, if they have not already received it.