Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: SAQUINAVIR ORAL (sah-KWIN-uh-veer)
BRAND NAME(S): Invirase
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This is a protease inhibitor type of antiviral medication used in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
HOW TO USE: Take this by mouth exactly as directed usually three times a day. This is best taken with food or within 2 hours after a meal. Follow your dosing instructions closely. This medication is given in combination with other antiviral drugs (e.g., zidovudine and lamivudine) for best results. Do not substitute different brands of this medication unless directed by your doctor. It is critical to take this medication every day exactly as prescribed. Do not interrupt treatment unless directed to do so by your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach upset, muscle or joint pain, cough or diarrhea may occur. If these symptoms continue or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: confusion, loss of coordination, severe weakness, depression, skin rash, unusual bleeding or bruising, stomach pain, hearing or vision difficulty, fever, chills, increased urination, thirst, unusual fatigue, persistent sore throat, yellowing of the eyes or skin. Changes in body fat may occur while you are taking this medication (e.g., increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms and legs). The cause and long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits of therapy with your doctor, as well as the possible role of exercise to reduce this side effect. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus - Read about HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) causes, symptoms, signs, treatment, prevention, transmission, facts, testing, research (vaccine), statistics and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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