| Protease Inhibitors |
During the last stage of the virus replication, the protease enzyme is necessary for the final assembly of the replicated new HIV viruses. The protease inhibitors block the protease enzyme, interfering with the replication process. In this way, these drugs are able to check the spread of the HIV viruses.
| Protease inhibitors approved by FDA |
| Atazanavir (Reyataz) |
Atazanavir is an antiviral drug for people with HIV infection. When taken with other antiviral drugs, it can reduce one's viral load to extremely low levels, and increase one's T-cell counts. Unlike other protease inhibitors, atazanavir does not lead to increases in blood fats. Therefore it is recommended for people who have high cholesterol or other risk factors for heart disease.
Possible Side Effects:
Fosamprenavir (Lexiva, 908) |
Fosamprenavir is an antiviral drug for people with HIV infection. When taken with other antiviral drugs, it can reduce one's viral load to extremely low levels, and increase one's T-cell counts. Fisamprenavir is taken by mouth as a tablet and can be taken with ritonavir in combination as well.
Possible Side Effects:
Indinavir (Crixivan) |
Indinavir is an antiviral drug for people with HIV infection. When taken with other antiviral drugs, it can reduce one's viral load to extremely low levels, and increase one's T-cell counts.
Possible Side Effects:
| Lopinavir+Ritonavir (Kaletra) |
Nelfinavir is an antiviral drug for people with HIV infection. When taken with other antiviral drugs, it can reduce one's viral load to extremely low levels, and increase one's T-cell counts.
Possible Side Effects:
| Nelfinavir (Viracept) |
Nelfinavir is an antiviral drug for people with HIV infection. When taken with other antiviral drugs, it can reduce one's viral load to extremely low levels, and increase one's T-cell counts.
Possible Side Effects:
| Ritonavir (Norvir) |
Ritonavir is an antiviral drug for people with HIV infection. It is sometimes combined with other protease inhibitors for better results. When taken with other antiviral drugs, it can reduce one's viral load to extremely low levels, and increase one's T-cell counts.
Side Effects:
| Saquinavir (Fortovase, Invirase) |
An antiviral drug for people with HIV infection. When taken with other antiviral drugs, it can reduce one's viral load to extremely low levels, and increase one's T-cell counts. The first version Invirase worked well for some people, but it is not absorbed very well. The newer version Fortovase is absorbed much better and more of the drug gets into the bloodstream. Invirase is still used in dual-protease combinations with ritonavir or atazanavir.
Possible Side Effects:
