Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Fosamprenavir (Lexiva) and indinavir (Crixivan) are both medications used to treat HIV infections and belong to the protease inhibitor class of antiretroviral (ARV) medications. However, there are several differences between them. Fosamprenavir (Lexiva) is still available as an oral tablet or suspension, while indinavir (Crixivan) has been discontinued in the U.S. due to business reasons and the availability of newer treatments. Fosamprenavir (Lexiva) is typically taken twice daily and often requires a "booster" like ritonavir to enhance its effectiveness, whereas indinavir (Crixivan) was taken without such a booster. Fosamprenavir (Lexiva) can cause side effects like rash, diarrhea, and nausea, and it interacts with many other medications, including birth control pills and PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil. Indinavir (Crixivan) was known for its side effects and interactions, which contributed to its decline in use. While fosamprenavir (Lexiva) is still prescribed, it is not a first-choice option due to its side effects and interactions, similar to why indinavir (Crixivan) fell out of favor before being discontinued.
Fosamprenavir (Lexiva)
Crixivan (indinavir)
Fosamprenavir (Lexiva)
Crixivan (indinavir)
Summary of Lexiva vs. Crixivan
Summary for HIV ARV
Prescription only
Fosamprenavir (Lexiva) is an oral tablet or suspension that's used as part of an antiretroviral (ARV) regimen to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It's typically taken twice daily, usually in combination with a "booster," like ritonavir (Norvir), to help fosamprenavir (Lexiva) work better against the virus. Fosamprenavir (Lexiva) isn't a first-choice option for HIV anymore because it can cause serious side effects (e.g., rash, diarrhea, and nausea) and can interact with many other medications.
Summary for HIV ARV
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.
Indications of Lexiva vs. Crixivan
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection
Indications for
Pros and Cons of Lexiva vs. Crixivan
Pros and Const for HIV ARV
Pros
•Available in a liquid form for people who have difficulty swallowing pills
•Can be used in children age 4 weeks and older
•Tablets can be taken with or without food
Cons
•Interacts with many medications
•Requires regular blood work and lab tests to make sure your liver is healthy
•Likely to cause high blood sugar and cholesterol levels
Pros and Const for HIV ARV
Pros
Cons
Common Side Effects of Lexiva vs. Crixivan
Common Side Effects for
•Diarrhea (5-13%)
•Higher levels of fats in the body (up to 11%)
•Higher liver labs (6-8%)
•Rash (3-8%)
•Nausea (3-7%)
Please note: The side effects above include those reported by people who also took ritonavir (Norvir) with fosamprenavir (Lexiva) during clinical trials.