What is "saquinavir"

n. (context pharmaceutical drug English) An anti-retroviral drug of the protease inhibitor class that is used in to treat HIV infected patients.

n. a weak protease inhibitor (trade name Invirase) used in treating HIV [syn: Invirase]

Saquinavir, sold under the brand names Invirase and Fortovase, is an antiretroviral drug used together with other medications to treat or prevent HIV/AIDS. Typically it is used with ritonavir or lopinavir/ritonavir to increase its affect. It is taken by mouth.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and feeling tired. More serious side effects include problems with QT prolongation, heart block, high blood lipids, and liver problems. It appears to be safe in pregnancy. It is in the protease inhibitor class and works by blocking the HIV protease.

Saquinavir was first sold in 1995. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medication needed in a basic health system. As of 2015 it is not available as a generic medication and is expensive. The wholesale cost in the developing world is about 4.50 USD per day.