Does Knowledge of PrEP Efficacy Increase Sexual Risk-Taking?

Randomized, placebo-controlled trials have established the efficacy of tenofovir-based preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for protecting against HIV acquisition. A major concern about PrEP is the possibility of behavioral risk compensation, which could undermine its protective benefit. Placebo-controlled studies conducted before the efficacy of PrEP had been established demonstrated reductions in sexual risk-taking, but these early placebo-controlled trials were suboptimal for evaluating risk compensation.

Now, in a longitudinal analysis involving the Partners PrEP Study cohort of HIV-serodiscordant heterosexual couples in Kenya and Uganda, researchers have examined participants' sexual behaviors during the 12 months before and after the release…