SAQUINAVIR - ORAL (Invirase) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

SAQUINAVIR ORAL Index

saquinavir - oral, Invirase

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GENERIC NAME: SAQUINAVIR - ORAL (sah-KWIN-uh-veer)

BRAND NAME(S): Invirase

USES: Saquinavir, used in combination with ritonavir and other medications, is used to help treat your HIV infection, thereby improving your quality of life. It also lowers your risk of getting HIV complications (such as new infections, cancer). Saquinavir belongs to a class of drugs known as protease inhibitors.Saquinavir is not a cure for HIV. It does not prevent the spread of HIV to others through sexual contact or blood contamination (such as sharing used needles).OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.This medication may also be used to prevent HIV infection after contact with the virus.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking saquinavir and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth with your ritonavir dose and a meal or up to 2 hours after a meal, usually 2 times daily or as directed by your doctor.The dosage is based on your medical condition, other medications, and response to treatment.This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.If you are taking HIV medications for the first time, you may experience symptoms of an old infection as your immune system begins to work better. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any trouble breathing, fever, new cough, vision problems, headaches, or skin problems.It is very important to continue taking this medication (and other HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed or stop taking it (or other HIV medicines) even for a short time unless directed to do so by your doctor. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your doctor may cause the amount of virus to increase, make the infection more difficult to treat, or worsen side effects.