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

Key takeaways

Prezista (darunavir) and Crixivan (indinavir) are both protease inhibitors used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Prezista (darunavir) is still available and commonly used, while Crixivan (indinavir) has been discontinued in the U.S. due to low demand and the availability of newer treatments. Prezista (darunavir) must be taken with a booster like ritonavir (Norvir) and food to be effective, whereas Crixivan (indinavir) did not have this requirement. Prezista (darunavir) is available as both a tablet and an oral suspension, making it easier for those who have trouble swallowing pills. Additionally, Prezista (darunavir) can be used in children as young as 3 years old and is considered safe during pregnancy, while Crixivan (indinavir) had more limitations and side effects, which contributed to its decline in use. Lastly, Prezista (darunavir) requires regular blood tests to monitor liver health and interactions with other medications, highlighting the need for careful management.

Prezista

(darunavir)

Get free coupons

Crixivan

(indinavir)

Get free coupons

Summary for Prezista

Prescription only

Prezista (darunavir) 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 often taken in combination with a "booster," like ritonavir (Norvir), to help Prezista (darunavir) work better against the virus. Rarely, this medication can cause a skin rash within the first month of treatment, but it typically goes away on its own. Lastly, let your provider know if you have a history of sulfa allergy since Prezista (darunavir) contains a "sulfa" component.

Indications for Prezista

Treatment of HIV infection in people aged 3 years and older

Pros and Cons for Prezista

Pros

Taken once a day by mouth
Available as an oral suspension, so it's convenient if you have trouble swallowing pills
Safe to take during pregnancy

Cons

Requires regular blood work and lab tests
Interacts with many medications
Must be used carefully in people with sulfa allergies

Common Side Effects for Prezista

Diarrhea (9-14%)
Rash (6-7%)
Nausea (4-7%)
Headache (3-7%)
Stomach pain (6%)
Vomiting (2-5%)

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

Warnings for Prezista

Liver problems
Severe skin and allergic reactions
Changes in body fat
Overactive immune system
Bleeding
Interactions with other medications

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.