Fortovase

What is it?

A protease inhibitor used in the treatment of HIV infection. HIV protease is an enzyme involved in the production of mature HIV particles. Blocking the action of the enzyme helps to inhibit the spread of the virus from cell to cell and hence slows down the progression of the infection. Available as soft, beige coloured capsules containing 200mg of saquinavir, all marked ROCHE 0246.

Medical Uses

Treatment of HIV-1 infection, along with other anteretroviral drugs.

Dosage

Adults and children over 16 years, 1200mg 3 times each day to be taken after a meal, within 2 hours of eating.

Special Care

Pregnancy, elderly patients, liver disease, previous hepatitis B or C, diabetes, chronic alcoholism, haemophilia, severe kidney disorders.

Avoid Use

Children, breastfeeding, serious liver disorders.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Azole antifungals, pimozide, carbamazepine, rifampicin, triazolam, indinavir, phenytoin, dexamethasone, statins, nelfinavir, midazolam, calcium antagonists, sildenafil, rifabutin, terfenadine, metoclopramide, phenobarbitone, tacrolimus, ritonavir, dapsone, efavirenz, quinidine, astemizole, cisapride, St John's wort.

Known Side Effects

Headache, malaise, pains in chest and abdomen, muscle pains, fatigue, insomnia, lowered appetite, depression, alteration of taste, itching, disturbance of kidney function, effects on peripheral nerves, anxiety, weakness, numbness in fingers and toes, 'pins and needles', disturbance in libido, insulin resistance, diabetes, feverishness, alterations in fat metabolism.