Invirase (Saquinavir)

What is Invirase?

Invirase is an antiviral medication. It belongs to a group of medicines called protease inhibitors.

What is Invirase used for?

Invirase is used for the treatment of HIV, which is said to cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

How does Invirase work?

Invirase works by averting the immunodeficiency virus cells from further growth and multiplication.

How to use Invirase

Follow the directions given by your doctor and in case of any doubts regarding dosage, go through the instruction leaflet attached with it.

Invirase is to be consumed with a glass of water along with another drug called ritonavir. Take Invirase and ritonavir with food or within 2 hours of taking your meal.

For best results, take the medicine regularly without a miss, and at the same time every day.

Invirase warnings and precautions

Invirase should be taken in recommendation from your doctor in the prescribed amount. An augment in the dosage might result in increased peril of side effects. Invirase is believed to help recover your immune system function; therefore, it is liable that hidden infections might come up.

As Invirase is not a cure for HIV, try and stay under the care of a medical practitioner. Invirase does not shield you from infection through sexual contact, so you are suggested to use better contraceptive measures. Keep away from using common needles, razors, or any other private items.

Invirase is said to increase triglyceride, lipid and blood sugar levels in the body. Keep a check on all these to avoid trouble.

If you witness a change in body fat, have a word with your doctor. Also, Invirase does not cure HIV infection, so you are advised to stay under the care of a physician.

Pregnant and lactating women should not take this medicine unless prescribed by a doctor.

What do I do if I have missed a Invirase dose?

If you have missed your Invirase dose, you should take it instantaneously. If it’s time for the next dose, then skip the missed one and go back to the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Invirase overdose?

If you have taken an Invirase overdose, you should call your nearest poison control centre and consult your physician.

Invirase interactions

Before you commence with your treatment with Invirase, tell your doctor about all your prescribed and non-prescribed dosages.

Many medicines are said to react with Invirase and augment the risk involved with the treatment with Invirase. Drugs used for the treatment of high cholesterol, pain, seizures, birth control, heart problems, impotence, migraine headaches, seizures, etc. are said to boost the peril of side effects.

St. John’s wort too is liable to interact with Invirase and boost chances of side effects.

Invirase side effects

The most common side effects linked with the treatment are stomach discomfort, blurred vision, tiredness, nausea, changes in sexual desire, night sweats, heartburn, weight gain, sleeplessness, anxiety, taste changes, vomiting, warts, etc. If these persist or grow with time, consult your doctor right away.

You, however, must take immediate action in case of severe or major side effects of Invirase, which include stomach pain or tenderness, blood in the vomit or stools, numbness or tingling, unusual weakness, dark urine, seizures, unusual vaginal discharge or odor, yellowing of the skin or eyes, back pain, depression or thoughts of suicide, shortness of breath, white patches in mouth, excessive thirst, hunger, or urination; chest tightness or pain, coughing up blood, back pain, flu-like symptoms, itching, fever, loss of coordination, pain in muscles or joints; reddened, blistered, or swollen skin; seizures etc.