tipranavir (Aptivus)

Type of Drug: Protease Inhibitor

Once HIV has infected a cell and made copies of itself, it uses an enzyme called protease to process itself correctly so it can be released from the cell to infect other cells. Protease inhibitors work by blocking that enzyme.

Approved adult dosing

two 250 mg capsules Aptivus + two 100 mg capsules Norvir (ritonavir), two times a day

• Morning

Aptivus

+

Norvir

• Evening

Aptivus

+

Norvir

Notes on taking this medication

• Should take with food; high-fat meal increases absorption
• Must take with Norvir
• Aptivus interacts with many other drugs; persons using Aptivus with those drugs may need an adjustment to their dose of Aptivus or the other drugs; consult your medical provider

Side effects

• Abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea
• Rash
• Elevations in cholesterol and triglycerides
• Liver inflammation and increased liver enzyme levels

SOURCE: United States Department of Veterans Affairs. "Drug Dosing Toolkit, Aptivus (tipranavir)."
<http://www.hiv.va.gov/vahiv?page=treat-drug-Aptivus>

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