Warning: following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise of you're pharmacist. this should not be construed to indicate that use of the med is safe or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

Saquinavir oral

(sah-kwin-uh-veer)

common brand names: Invirase

Invirase Usage: this is protease inhibitor type of antiviral medication used in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

How to use Invirase: Take this by mouth exactly as directed usually three times a day. this is best taken with food or within 2 hours after meal. Follow your dosing instructions closely. this medication is given in combination with other antiviral drugs (e.g., zidovudine & lamivudine) for best results. don't substitute different brands of it drug unless directed by your physician. it is critical to take it medication all day exactly as prescribed. do not interrupt treatment unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Invirase 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 physician 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 about the eyes or skin. Changes in body fat may occur while you taking this medication (e.g., increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms & legs). cause & long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss risks & benefits of therapy with your doctor, as well as possible role about exercise to reduce it side effect. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Invirase Precautions: Before taking it, tell your doctor if you have: liver disease, diabetes, blood disorders, allergies. this may make you more sensitive to the sun than usual. Avoid sun exposure. Use sunscreen & wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor if you pregnant before using it drug. this isn't known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. HIV infected mothers are advised to avoid breast-feeding at order to protect the infant from becoming infected with HIV.

Invirase drug interactions: it drug shouldnot be used with following medications because very serious interactions may occur: terfenadine, astemizole, cisapride, triazolam, midazolam, ergot alkaloids & derivatives (e.g., ergotamine), cholesterol-lowering medications (e.g., statins such as lovastatin, simvastatin), St. John's wort, rifamycins (e.g., rifabutin, rifampin). If you currently using any of these drugs, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting saquinavir. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of every prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: insulin, anti-diabetic meds, phenobarbital, phenytoin, dexamethasone, carbamazepine, calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, nifedipine), clindamycin, dapsone, quinidine, nelfinavir, indinavir, ritonavir, delavirdine, nevirapine, ketoconazole, sildenafil, clarithromycin. this drug may interfere with effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. do not start or stop any medicine without physician or doctor approval.

Invirase Overdose: If overdose is suspected, contact youre local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include pain in throat.

Invirase special notes: this medication is not cure for HIV infection. long term effects are unknown in it time. Be aware that this drug does not reduce the risk of passing virus to others through sexual contact or blood contamination. Keep every pharmacist appointments & scheduled laboratory tests as you're condition will be monitored closely. it is potent drug & shouldnot be shared.

If you missed Invirase dose: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours about following dose, skip missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. It's important not to miss doses about this drug.

Invirase Storage: Store at room temperature between 59 & 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light as directed. Keep it & all pills out of reach of children.

Active Ingredients : Saquinavir