Crixivan

What is it?

An anti-HW preparation which is a protease inhibitor, acting to prevent the enzyme HIV protease from processing the polyprntein needed for the production of HIV particles and hence slowing the development of the disease. Available as white capsules in 4 different strengths, each marked with strength and name, containing 100mg, 200mg, 333mg or 400mg of indinxvir, respectively.

Medical Uses

Additional treatment with antiretroviral nucleoside analogues for HIV-1 infection.

Dosage

Adults, 800mg every 8 hours, capsules to be swallowed whole with water and taken either 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours afterwards. Children aged 4 to 17 years, 500mg per metre squared of body surface area (as determined by clinical staff) every 8 hours, according to specialist advice.

Special Care

Pregnancy, diabetes, kidney stones (temporarily discontinue during acute episode), liver disorders, haemophilia, acute haemolytic anaemia.

Avoid Use

Children under 4 years, breastfeeding.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Drugs inducing CYP3A4, ritonavir, alprazolam, itraconazole, lovastatin, delavirdine, simvastatin, ketoconazole, rifampicin, sildenafil, pimozide, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, calcium antagonists, midazolam, astemizole, saquinavir, terfenadine, carbamazepine, phenytoin, warfarin, cisapride, didanosine, dexamethasone, efavirenz, rifabutin, ergot derivatives, phenobarbitone, nevirapine, St John's wort, triazolam.

Known Side Effects

Allergic reactions, skin effects, weakness, acute haemolytic anaemia, blood changes, muscle pains, diabetes, gastrointestinal upset, tiredness, sleeplessness, bloating, liver disorders, hepatitis, dry mouth, dizziness, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, pancreatitis, headache, taste changes, painful urination, excess of bile pigment in blood, kidney stones, insulin resistance, raised lipid levels in blood.