Key takeaways
Nelfinavir (Viracept) and indinavir (Crixivan) are both protease inhibitors used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Both medications belong to the same drug class and work by stopping the HIV virus from making copies of itself. However, nelfinavir is still available and prescribed, while indinavir has been discontinued in the U.S. due to side effects and medication interactions. Nelfinavir is taken orally, typically two to three times a day with meals, and is available in tablet and oral powder forms. Indinavir was also taken orally but is no longer available in any form. Nelfinavir can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, and it interacts with many other medications, which can affect how well it works. Indinavir, on the other hand, was discontinued partly because of its side effects and interactions, making it less favorable compared to newer HIV treatments.
