Invirase vs. Crixivan for HIV Treatment: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Invirase (saquinavir) and Crixivan (indinavir) are both medications used to treat HIV and belong to the protease inhibitor class. However, there are several differences between them. Invirase (saquinavir) is still available and is taken orally as part of an antiretroviral regimen, requiring co-administration with ritonavir (Norvir) to enhance its effectiveness. It is prescribed for adults and children over 16 years old. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, and it can interact with many other medications, potentially causing serious issues like heart rhythm problems. On the other hand, Crixivan (indinavir) has been discontinued in the U.S. due to business reasons and is no longer available in brand or generic forms. While both medications are protease inhibitors, Invirase (saquinavir) remains in use, whereas Crixivan (indinavir) is not an option for treatment anymore.

Invirase

(saquinavir)

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Crixivan

(indinavir)

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Summary for Invirase

Prescription only

Invirase (saquinavir) is an oral tablet that's used as part of an antiretroviral (ARV) regimen to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in adults and children over 16 years of age. You'll also need to take ritonavir (Norvir) twice daily to help Invirase (saquinavir) work better against the virus. Invirase (saquinavir) belongs to a class of medications called protease inhibitors. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Indications for Invirase

Treatment of HIV infection in people over 16 years old

Pros and Cons for Invirase

Pros

Approved for use in adults and children over 16 years old
Safe to take for people with mild to moderate kidney problems
Available as a tablet taken by mouth twice daily

Cons

Might raise blood sugar, body fat, and cholesterol levels
Requires regular blood work and lab tests
Interacts with many medications

Common Side Effects for Invirase

Nausea (11%)
Diarrhea (8%)
Vomiting (7%)
Stomach pain (6%)
Feeling tired (6%)
Pneumonia (5%)
Changes in fat (5%)

Side effects above were reported in adults taking this medication with ritonavir (Norvir).

Warnings for Invirase

Interactions with other medications
Heart rhythm problems
High blood sugar
Liver problems
Risk of bleeding in people with hemophilia
Higher cholesterol levels
Potential harm if lactose intolerant
Overactive immune system
Changes in body fat

Summary for Crixivan

Discontinued

Crixivan (indinavir) was one of the first HIV antiretroviral (ARV) medications approved by the FDA. Due to side effects and medication interactions, it has not been a first choice treatment option for many years and has been discontinued in the U.S.