When is it critical to begin immediate treatment for potential HIV exposure?

Immediate treatment for potential HIV exposure is critical within 72 hours following the exposure event. This timing is essential because post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is most effective when initiated as soon as possible, ideally within a few hours but certainly within the 72-hour window. After this period, the effectiveness of PEP decreases significantly, and the likelihood of HIV infection increases if the individual has been exposed to the virus.

The 72-hour mark is based on clinical guidelines that emphasize the importance of rapid intervention to reduce the viral load and prevent the establishment of infection. Delaying treatment beyond this timeframe diminishes the chances of successfully preventing HIV, which is why it is emphasized as the upper limit for initiating PEP.