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Other drug names: | A-Am An-Az B C-Ch Ci-Cz D-Dh Di-Dz E F G H I-J K-L M-Mh Mi-Mz N-Nh Ni-Nz O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q-R S-Sn So-Sz T-To Tp-Tz U-V W-Z 0-9 |
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Invirase hard gelatin capsules and Fortovase soft gelatin capsules are not interchangeable. Make sure your doctor knows which product you have been taking. |
Saquinavir is used in combination with other medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in patients with or without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Saquinavir is in a class of antiviral medications called protease (pro' tee ace) inhibitors. It works by slowing the spread of HIV infection in the body. Saquinavir is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Saquinavir does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people.
Saquinavir comes as a hard gelatin capsule (Invirase) and a soft gelatin capsule (Fortovase) to take by mouth. The hard gelatin capsule is usually taken three times a day within 2 hours after a full meal. The soft gelatin capsule is usually taken three times a day with a meal or up to 2 hours after a meal. To help you remember to take saquinavir, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take saquinavir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Saquinavir controls HIV infection but does not cure it. Continue to take saquinavir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking saquinavir without talking to your doctor.
Saquinavir is also used (as an alternative to indinavir) to treat health-care workers and other individuals exposed to HIV infection after accidental contact with HIV-contaminated blood, tissues, or other body fluids. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before taking saquinavir,
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, if it has been less than 2 hours since your last meal. If it has been more than 2 hours since your last meal, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Saquinavir may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects may be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience either of them, call your doctor immediately:
Saquinavir may increase the sugar level in your blood. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Saquinavir may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests before and during treatment to check your body's response to saquinavir.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Last Revised - 04/01/2003
The MedMaster Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.
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Page last updated: 04 October 2004 |