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General Medication Fact Sheet for Saquinavir
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Saquinavir |
| Generic Name | Saquinavir |
| Purpose | Antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV infection |
| Mechanism of Action | HIV-1 protease inhibitor that prevents the cleavage of viral polyproteins |
| Dosage Forms | Oral capsules, Oral tablets |
| Available Strengths | 200 mg, 500 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically twice daily, usually with Ritonavir and other antiretroviral agents |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, fatigue |
| Serious Side Effects | Liver problems, high blood sugar, increased cholesterol, changes in body fat distribution |
| Drug Interactions | Many drugs interact with saquinavir. Common examples include: rifampin, ketoconazole, statins, and certain antiarrhythmics. Consult your healthcare provider for a complete list. |
| Important Notes | Must be taken with Ritonavir (another protease inhibitor) to boost its effectiveness; take with food. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Atazanavir, Darunavir, Lopinavir/Ritonavir, Ritonavir |
Saquinavir Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Atazanavir (Reyataz) | HIV-1 protease inhibitor | Another protease inhibitor, often used in combination therapy. |
| Darunavir (Prezista) | HIV-1 protease inhibitor | A protease inhibitor used with Ritonavir. |
| Lopinavir/Ritonavir (Kaletra) | HIV-1 protease inhibitor/Boosting agent | A combination protease inhibitor boosted with Ritonavir. |
| Ritonavir (Norvir) | HIV-1 protease inhibitor (Boosting agent) | Used as a boosting agent for other protease inhibitors. |
Saquinavir Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Liver problems (hepatotoxicity) |
| Diarrhea | High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) |
| Abdominal discomfort | Increased cholesterol and triglycerides |
| Fatigue | Changes in body fat distribution (lipodystrophy) |
| Headache | Heart rhythm problems |
Saquinavir Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| HIV Infection | 1000 mg | 1000 mg twice daily | Must be taken with Ritonavir 100 mg twice daily and with food. Refer to prescribing information for full details. |
