(sa-KWIN-uh-veer)
Saquinavir (Invirase®) is a medicine used to treat patients who are infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This medicine does not cure the disease; it slows down the destruction of the immune system and may help to slow down the progress of the HIV disease. It is available as a 200 mg capsule and a 500 mg tablet.
Show All- This medication works best when there is a constant level in the body. To achieve this, give each dose at the same time every day.
- Saquinavir should be taken with food, best at meals or within 2 hours after a meal.
- Taking other medications, either prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), can change the amount of saquinavir in the blood and cause bad side effects. Do not give any other medicine without first talking to your child's doctor.
- This medication can make your child more sensitive to the sun. Protective clothing and sunscreen should be worn for long periods outside.
- It is important to keep regular doctor visits so the effects of the medicine can be watched carefully.
- Laboratory tests will be done regularly while taking this medication.
- Store medication at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
- If too much medicine is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
- Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle / package.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and / or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
- Diarrhea, cramps
- Nausea / vomiting
- Mouth sores and / or pain
- Headache
- Dizziness or faintness
- Rash
- Bruising or unusual bleeding
- Severe diarrhea (loose stools)
- Stomach pain or severe vomiting
- Numbness in hands or feet
- Yellowing of eyes or skin
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
