Drug Uses

INDINAVIR is very useful in treating AIDS and it works by slowing the growth of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.
You may choose to take INDINAVIR with a meal to avoid an upset stomach or without one.
Please drink a full glass of water with INDINAVIR. Avoid grape or grape juice while using it.
It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.
Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

INDINAVIR falls under antiviral medication in a group of HIV medicines called protease (PRO-tee-ayz) inhibitors and it works by preventing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cells from multiplying in your body.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.
Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store INDINAVIR at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F(20 and 25 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using INDINAVIR if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you are taking alfuzosin, amiodarone, astemizole, atazanavir, certain benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, midazolam, triazolam), certain HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (e.g., lovastatin, simvastatin), cisapride, an ergot derivative (e.g., ergonovine, ergotamine), erythromycin, pimozide, a proton pump inhibitor (e.g., omeprazole), rifampin, a serotonin 5-HT1 receptor antagonist (e.g., eletriptan, sumatriptan), St. John's wort, or terfenadine.
Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.
INDINAVIR may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages. So please avoid them while using INDINAVIR. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc). It is not a cure for HIV, so constantly keep in touch with doctor.
If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using INDINAVIR to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.
If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using INDINAVIR as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.