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OTHER NAMES- Invirase
WHY THIS MEDICATION IS GIVEN
Saquinavir is used (in combination with a nucleoside analog (AZT,ddI,ddC,d4T, or 3TC)), for the treatment of HIV, the virus responsible for AIDS. Saquinavir will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Saquinavir will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this medication may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Make sure your doctor knows if you have any of the following medical conditions:
HOW TO TAKE
Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Keep taking saquinavir for the full time of treatment, even if you begin to feel better. Also, do not stop taking this medicine without checking with you doctor first. It is important that you take saquinavir within 2 hours of a full meal. A high fat, high calorie meal greatly increases the amount of saquinavir that gets into your body.
WHERE TO KEEP
Keep it in the bottle it came in and store it in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. Keep the bottle out of reach of children.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
Saquinavir may cause diarrhea, stomachache, headache, feeling of weakness, or muscle soreness. These effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. If they become bothersome, check with your doctor.
If you notice any severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, skin rash and itching, mouth sores, fever and chills, or trouble breathing, call your doctor immediately.