Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Prezista (darunavir)
Invirase (saquinavir)
Prezista (darunavir)
Invirase (saquinavir)
Summary of Prezista vs. Invirase
Summary for HIV ARV
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.
Summary for HIV-1 protease inhibitor
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 of Prezista vs. Invirase
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection in people aged 3 years and older
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection in people over 16 years old
Pros and Cons of Prezista vs. Invirase
Pros and Const for HIV ARV
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
Pros and Const for HIV-1 protease inhibitor
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 of Prezista vs. Invirase
Common Side Effects for
•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.
Common Side Effects for
•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).