Drug Dosing Tool: Invirase (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)

Invirase (saquinavir)

Type of Drug: Protease Inhibitor

Once HIV has infected a cell and made copies of itself, it uses an enzyme called protease to process itself correctly so it can be released from the cell to infect other cells. Protease inhibitors work by blocking that enzyme.

Approved adult dosing

two 500 mg tablets Invirase + one 100 mg capsule Norvir, two times a day

Morning
Invirase 500 mg
+
Norvir
Evening
Invirase 500 mg
+
Norvir

five 200 mg capsules Invirase + one 100 mg capsule Norvir, two times a day

Morning
Invirase 200 mg
+
Norvir
Evening
Invirase 200 mg
+
Norvir

Notes on taking this medication

Take with food or after a meal
Invirase interacts with many other drugs; persons using Invirase with those drugs may need an adjustment to their dose of Invirase or the other drugs; consult your medical provider

Side effects

Nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; stomach discomfort; headache
Liver inflammation and increased liver enzyme levels
Elevations in cholesterol and triglycerides
Abnormal accumulation of body fat

See accompanying chart: Tips for Common Side Effects

My doctor's instructions

Disclaimer:

This information is not meant to substitute for advice from your medical provider or pharmacist. If you have any questions about your medication dosing, talk to your medical provider or pharmacist.

Image of Invirase is courtesy of T. Van Nunnery

Drug Dosing Toolkit