Risk increases with exposure involving deep injuries, and large numbers of viruses.
Unfortunately, increased HIV resistance to zidovudine is rapidly undermining the potential benefit of prophylaxis with zidovudine alone. Although this combination does not appear to increase side effects, long- term toxicity is not known. Protease inhibitors used with the reverse transcriptase inhibitors may offer additional benefit in high-risk cases. Indinavir is the agent of choice. This is must reading for all emergency medical personnel who treat exposed health care workers or might themselves be exposed.