What is this medication for?
Saquinavir soft gelatin capsule is used in combination with other anti-HIV
medications to treat the infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV), the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome
(AIDS). Saquinavir belongs to a class of medications called protease inhibitors.
Saquinavir blocks the action of protease, and enzyme that is needed by HIV to
multiply.
This medication does not cure AIDS and does not prevent it from being spread
to others. It does slow further growth or reproduction of HIV when used in combination
with other medications, and it seems to slow down the destruction of the immune
system. This may help to delay the development of problems that are related
to AIDS or HIV disease.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those
listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all
of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do
not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms
as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Fortovase® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
For people 16 years and older, the recommended dose of saquinavir soft gelatin
capsule is 1200 mg taken three times daily.
This medication should be taken within 2 hours after meals and swallowed whole
with a full glass of water.
Finish all this medication, even if you have started to feel better.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture,
and keep it out of the reach of children.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important to take this medication on a regular basis as prescribed.
The doses should be spaced as close to every 8 hours as possible. If you miss
a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose,
skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not
take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss many doses in
a row, talk to your doctor about how to resume dosing.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Saquinavir should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to saquinavir or any ingredients of the medication
- is taking any of the following medications:
- astemizole or terfenadineanti-arrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone, quinidine)
- antihistamines (e.g., terfenadine, astemizole)
- benzodiazepines (e.g., triazolam, midazolam)
- cisapride
- ergot derivatives (e.g., ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, ergonovine,
methylergonovine)
- pimozide
- rifabutin
- rifampin