About saquinavir
HIV protease inhibitor
Used for
- Used with other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV-1 infection.
Usual adult dose
With ritonavir: 1,000 mg twice daily, taken with food; dosing depends on the full treatment regimen.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
- Liver enzyme changes
Important warnings
- Can prolong the heart’s electrical rhythm and cause serious arrhythmias.
- Many medicines interact; some combinations are dangerous or should be avoided.
- Liver disease may increase risks; liver monitoring may be needed.
- Use only with ritonavir and other HIV medicines, as prescribed.
Pregnancy
Saquinavir with ritonavir may be used during pregnancy in selected cases; regimen choice requires specialist guidance.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is generally not recommended for people with HIV where safe alternatives are available.
Interactions
- Rifampin and certain seizure medicines can greatly reduce saquinavir levels.
- Some heart-rhythm medicines and drugs affecting rhythm can raise serious risks.
- St. John’s wort can reduce saquinavir levels.
- Ritonavir and many other medicines alter saquinavir levels; review all medicines.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.