Nelfinavir is used in combination with other medications to control HIV infection. It does not treat the infection itself but rather reduces the likelihood that it will evolve into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and cause other health problems typically associated with HIV, such as severe infections or tumors. Combined with protected sexual intercourse and a good lifestyle, Nelfinavir can also help reduce risk of transmitting the virus through sexual contact.

 

What is Nelfinavir?

Nelfinavir is an inhibitor of the HIV-1 protease, an enzyme required for the production of viral proteins. In particular, this antiviral leads to the formation of virus and non-infectious immature particles, thus reducing the amount of HIV present in the blood.

 

How should Nelfinavir be taken?

Nelfinavir can be taken orally in the form of tablets or powder for solutions. The typical dosage is 2-3 times daily, on a full stomach.

 

Side effects associated with Nelfinavir

Possible side effects of Nelfinavir include the following:

  • Hyperglycemia
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Gas
  • Stomach pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Rash

 

It is important to contact a doctor immediately if the drug triggers:

  • Urticaria
  • Itch
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty swallowing

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Nelfinavir

Nelfinavir can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Furthermore, it must be taken on some time after or two hours before Didanoside drugs. The powder formulation is not suitable for people suffering from phenylketonuria.

 

Before taking Nelfinavir, it is important to inform your doctor:

  • If you have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drug
  • If you are taking any medications or herbal supplements. Mentioning in particular: alfuzosin, amiodarone, cisapride, ergot derivatives, lovastatin, simvastatin or other statins, midazolam (orally), pimozide, quinidine, rifampin, sildenafil or other phosphodiesterase inhibitors for erectile dysfunction, triazolam, azithromycin, bosentan, calcium channel blockers, carbamazepine, colchicine, delavirdine, fluticasone, indinavir, immunosuppressive drugs, methadone, nevirapine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, proton pump inhibitors, rifabutin, rifampin, ritonavir , salmeterol, saquinavir, tadalafil, trazodone, warfarin or St. John's wort
  • If you suffer (or have suffered) from diabetes, hemophilia, or liver disease
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding

 

It is important to inform surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with Nelfinavir.