What is this medication for?
Saquinavir is used usually in combination with an antiviral medication, ritonavir, 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, an 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 are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting 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.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Invirase® 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 is 1,000 mg taken twice daily with ritonavir, which is another anti-HIV medication.
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.
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 important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Saquinavir should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to saquinavir or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is taking any of the following medications:
- antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone, flecainide, propafenone, quinidine)
- antihistamines (e.g., astemizole, terfenadine)
- benzodiazepines (e.g., midazolam, triazolam)
- cisapride
- ergot derivatives (e.g., dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, ergotamine, methylergonovine)
- pimozide
- rifabutin
- rifampin