Indinavir

Indinavir Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Indinavir is a brand name. Its generic name is Indinavir.

Indinavir Introduction

Indinavir is a prescription antiviral medication that is used in combination with other medications to treat HIV and AIDS infection. It belongs to a class of medications called protease inhibitors (PIs) and is typically only prescribed when other medications have failed to produce an effective response.

Uses for

Indinavir is used for treating HIV and AIDS infection when other medications have failed to provide an effective response.

Mechanism of Action

Indinavir works by blocking the activity of HIV protease, an enzyme that is responsible for the production of infectious progeny viruses. By preventing the replication of HIV, Indinavir can help to reduce the amount of virus in the body, allowing the immune system to better fight the remaining virus.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Indinavir does not start working immediately. It takes about four to six weeks for the full effects of the drug to be seen in the body.

Absorption

Indinavir is absorbed into the body rapidly from the stomach and intestine after it is taken. The highest concentrations of the drug are found in the liver, spleen, and lungs.

Route of Elimination

Indinavir is primarily eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Small amounts of the drug are also eliminated through the feces and urine.

Dosage

Indinavir is typically prescribed at a daily dose of 800mg taken with other HIV medications. It should not be taken on an empty stomach and should be taken with water. If a dose is missed, take the dose as soon as possible, however, it is important not to double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Administration

Indinavir should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. It can be taken with or without food, however, it should be taken with food if it causes stomach upset.

Side Effect

Common side effects associated with Indinavir therapy include nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and dizziness. Rare side effects can include changes in skin color, joint pain, and kidney stones.

Toxicity

Indinavir is not well tolerated by many HIV/AIDS patients and has been associated with high levels of toxicity. The toxicity of the medication is increased when it is combined with other medications and can result in an increased risk of serious side effects and even death.

Precaution

Patients should not take Indinavir if they are allergic to it or if they are taking other HIV medications such as ritonavir or efavirenz. Patients should tell their doctor if they have a history of kidney or liver diseases, or if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also important to tell the doctor if the patient is taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines, as this could increase the risk of side effects.

Interaction

Interactions between Indinavir and other medications can occur, which could increase or decrease the effectiveness of either drug. It is important to tell all your doctors and pharmacists about all medications being taken, including over-the-counter medications, in order to avoid interactions.

Disease Interaction

Indinavir has been Knoen to interact with certain medical conditions such as kidney and liver disease, as well as HIV and AIDS. It is important to tell your doctor about all existing medical conditions prior to taking Indinavir.

Drug Interaction

Indinavir can interact with a variety of other medications, and patients taking Indinavir should talk to their doctor before taking any new medications. Patients should always tell their doctor about all other medications they are taking, including over the counter medications.

Food Interactions

Indinavir should be taken with food unless otherwise specified by a doctor. It is important to adhere to the recommended dietary and drug interactions when taking this medication.

Pregnancy Use

Indinavir should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. It is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in pregnant women, and thus should only be used under the close supervision of a doctor.

LactationUse

Indinavir should not be taken while breastfeeding. There have been reports of the drug passing into breast milk and it is not known if the drug is safe for the nursing baby. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Indinavir if you are breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of Indinavir can be life-threatening. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, confusion, lightheadedness, and trouble breathing. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Contraindication

Indinavir should not be taken if the patient is allergic to the drug or any of the active ingredients in the medication. Indinavir is also contraindicated in patients who have had a serious allergic reaction to other HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir or efavirenz).

Use Direction

The dosage and frequency of Indinavir should be determined by a doctor and strictly followed. Indinavir should not be taken on an empty stomach and should always be taken with a full glass of water. If a dose is missed, take the dose as soon as possible, however, do not double-dose to make up for a missed dose.

Storage Condition

Indinavir should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. It should be kept away from light and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

The distribution of Indinavir in the body is determined primarily by its lipid solubility. It is found to be distributed in the liver, spleen, and lungs, and the highest concentration of the drug is found in the liver.

Half Life

The half-life of Indinavir is approximately 2-3 hours. This is the time it takes for the drug to be reduced by half in the body.

Clearance

The clearance of Indinavir is mainly through the kidneys. Small amounts of the drug are also eliminated through the feces and urine.

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