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NAME
Nelfinavir |
BRAND
Viracept |
CLASS
HIV protease inhibitor (PI) |
COST
$8,381/yr., $698/month |
STANDARD DOSE
Five 250 mg tablets (1250) twice a day with food. Take a missed dose as soon as possible, but do not double the next dose. Also granular formula to mix in juice or water. 625 mg tablets (two twice a day) expected soon. |
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Stomach pain, asthenia (weakness), flatulence (gas) and rash. nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, tingling/numbness around the mouth, hands or feet, loss of appetite, taste, disturbance, headache, dizziness, pancreatitis (see nukes) and alcohol intolerance. Seen with all protease inhibitors are: high blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) especially with Norvir and perhaps associated heart disease, lipodysrophy (body fat changes, including thinning of the face, arms and legs, with or without fat accumulations in the stomach, breasts and sometimes upper back) worsening or new cases of diabetes (symptoms include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and dry itchy skin; see your doctor promptly) and increased bleeding in hemophiliacs. |
POTENTIAL DRUG INTERACTIONS
Do not use Zocor, or Mevacor, suggested alternatives are Lipitor. Lescol. Baycol, and Pravachol (looks best on paper for protease inhibitors) alternatives should still be used with caution because of potential for liver toxicity. Increased blood levels decreased significantly by Sustivea, but can be taken together if Norvir is included. Other drugs that may also reduce Fortovase blood levels are Decadron and Tegretol, Dilantin, and Phenobarbital. Do not take with Halcion, Hismanal, cordorane, quindine, ergot medications (such as Wigraine and Cafergot, in any form-seruios internations seen with dilatation during gynecological exams) High incidence of liver problems and severe ones, when taken with Rescriptor Protease inhibitors increase blood levels of Viagra (sidenafil citrate_ and Viagra dose should be started at 12.5 mg increased as needed and tolerated. One report suggested Viagra should start at half that when taken by someone on Norvir. It's recommended that people do not exceed 25 mg in a 48-hour period because of potential for fatal reaction. |
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