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

Key takeaways

Atazanavir (Reyataz) and indinavir (Crixivan) are both medications used to treat HIV infections when taken with other HIV antiretrovirals. They both belong to the protease inhibitor class of antiretroviral (ARV) medications. However, there are several differences between them. Atazanavir (Reyataz) is still available and is taken orally, either as a tablet or powder, while indinavir (Crixivan) has been discontinued in the U.S. due to business reasons and the availability of newer treatments. Atazanavir (Reyataz) is typically taken once daily with food and often requires a "booster" like ritonavir to enhance its effectiveness. In contrast, indinavir (Crixivan) was known for its side effects and interactions, which contributed to its decline in use. Atazanavir (Reyataz) can cause side effects like nausea, headache, and jaundice, and it interacts with many medications, requiring careful management.

Atazanavir

(Reyataz)

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Crixivan

(indinavir)

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Summary for Reyataz

Prescription only

Atazanavir (Reyataz) is an oral tablet or powder 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 atazanavir (Reyataz) work better against the virus. Some common side effects of this medication include nausea, vomiting, and headache. Rarely, this medication can also cause jaundice, which is a health condition that causes the skin or whites of the eyes to turn yellow.

Indications for Reyataz

Treatment of HIV infection

Pros and Cons for Reyataz

Pros

Powder form can be mixed with soft food or liquid, such as applesauce or milk, so convenient for people with difficulty swallowing pills
Available as a lower-cost generic medication
Can be used in young children 3 months and older who weigh over 5 kg (powder form)
Only taken once a day

Cons

Interacts with a lot of medications
Requires regular blood work and lab tests
Not safe for use for people with serious kidney problems
Needs to be taken with food

Common Side Effects for Reyataz

Higher liver enzyme levels (44-49%)
Higher cholesterol levels (up to 25%)
Nausea (3-14%)
Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (7-9%)
Headache (1-6%)
Vomiting (3-4%)
Belly pain (4%)
Nerve pain (4%)
Rash (3-7%)
Diarrhea (1-3%)

Please note: The side effects above were reported in adults taking this medication with other HIV ARVs. Side effects might differ in children.

Warnings for Reyataz

Heart rhythm problems (PR prolongation)
Severe skin and allergic reactions
Liver problems
Kidney problems
Risk of kidney stones or gallstones
High blood sugar
Overactive immune system
Changes in body fat
Risk of 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.