Indinavir, is an oral medication that is used for
treating infections with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is
in a class of drugs called protease inhibitors which also includes
ritonavir (Norvir), nelfinavir (Viracept) and saquinavir (Invirase,
Fortovase).
Indinavir blocks the activity of protease and results in the formation
of defective viruses that are unable to infect the body's cells. As a
result, the number of viruses in the body (the viral load) decreases.
Nevertheless, This medicament does not prevent the transmission of HIV among
individuals, and it does not cure HIV infections or AIDS. Indinavir was
approved by the FDA in March, 1995.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects of indinavir are
abdominal pain, weakness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, insomnia
and abnormal taste sensation. Indinavir may cause hemolytic anemia
(break-down of red blood cells), liver failure and kidney stones. Kidney
stones may be prevented by adequate fluid intake. Adequate fluid intake
can be achieved by consuming at least 48 ounces of fluid daily. Like
other protease inhibitors, use of indinavir may be associated with
redistribution or accumulation of body fat, increased blood cholesterol
and worsening of diabetes. |
