Trends in HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Use in the United States from 2015-2023

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have published a study on HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) use in the United States, highlighting a significant increase in PEP prescriptions from 2015 to 2023. The study analyzed national trends in PEP regimens recommended by the CDC, as well as the off-label use of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF) for PEP.

Key Takeaways:

  • The number of persons prescribed PEP increased from 20,618 in 2015 to 44,934 in 2023, representing a 118% growth.
  • The number of persons prescribed a bictegravir-based PEP regimen increased from 1,377 (4.1% of total PEP users) in 2018 to 7,536 (16.8%) in 2023, indicating a shift in PEP prescribing practices.
  • Among 44,934 PEP users in 2023, 53.8% were men, and 39.8% were aged 25-34 years.
  • Most (88.4%) PEP users were prescribed a full course of PEP (28-30-day supply).
  • The analysis found an increasing trend in PEP use annually, possibly reflecting greater PEP awareness and broader HIV prevention efforts.

Statistics:

  • 20,618 persons were prescribed PEP in 2015.
  • 44,934 persons were prescribed PEP in 2023.
  • 118% growth in PEP prescriptions from 2015 to 2023.
  • 53.8% of PEP users in 2023 were men.
  • 39.8% of PEP users in 2023 were aged 25-34 years.
  • 88.4% of PEP users were prescribed a full course of PEP (28-30-day supply) in 2023.
  • 16.8% of PEP users in 2023 were prescribed a bictegravir-based PEP regimen.

Sources:

  • Trends in Persons Prescribed HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis in the United States, 2015-2023, published in Clinical Infectious Diseases, 2025.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • IQVIA Real World Data-Longitudinal Prescriptions database.
  • Oxford University Press Inc. Journals Dept.
  • Clinical Infectious Diseases.