Indications
Viracept is an oral medication used in the treatment of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection. It contains active ingriedent called Nelfinavir mesylate. Nelfinavir mesylate belongs to the class of drugs known as protease inhibitors, which work by blocking an enzyme that the virus needs to replicate itself.
Viracept is always used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs. It is indicated in antiretroviral combination treatment of human-immunodeficiency-virus (HIV-1)-infected adults, adolescents, and children of three years. Viracept is a prescription medication that should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Use and Dosage
Viracept comes as a tablet that should be taken orally with a meal, as per the directions provided by your doctor. You should take Viracept 2-3 times a day, as instructed, unless your healthcare professional has advised otherwise.
In case you are not able to swallow the tablet, you can crush the dose and take it with food or dissolve it in a small amount of water. However, do not mix it with acidic food or juices like apple juice/sauce and orange juice, as this may make the medication taste bitter. After dissolving Viracept in water, stir the mixture well and drink the whole solution immediately. Rinse your container with additional water and consume the rinse liquid to ensure you receive the complete dose.
Continue taking Viracept, along with other prescribed HIV medications, as directed by your doctor. Do not change your dosage or skip taking Viracept (or other HIV medicines) unless your doctor tells you to. Failing to adhere to the prescribed dose schedule may increase the amount of the virus and make the infection harder to treat or worsen Viracept's side effects.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Viracept (Nelfinavir mesylate):
- Changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Loss of appetite
- Low white blood cell counts
- Nausea
- Rash
- Stomach pain
Serious Side Effects of Viracept (Nelfinavir mesylate):
- Cold sores
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Easy bruising
- Fever
- Fruity breath odor
- Impotence
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Menstrual changes
- Mouth sores
- Night sweats
- Problems with balance or eye movement
- Purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin
- Skin sores
- Sore throat
- Swelling in your neck or throat (enlarged thyroid)
- Swollen glands
- Trouble speaking or swallowing
- Unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum)
- Weakness or prickly feeling
- Weight loss
- Wheezing
Forms and Strength
Viracept (Nelfinavir mesylate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Viracept: Tablet
- 625 mg
Cautions
- Increase in blood sugar and lipid levels, which may require closer monitoring in individuals with diabetes or high cholesterol.
- Risk of severe or fatal liver damage, particularly in individuals with underlying liver disease or hepatitis B or C
- Risk of developing a severe, life-threatening skin rash, particularly in individuals with a high T-cell count
- Risk of developing immune reconstitution syndrome (IRIS), a condition where the immune system responds to a previously hidden infection shortly after starting HIV treatment
- People with liver disease should use Viracept with caution, as it may exacerbate liver problems.
- Viracept may interact with other medications, including blood thinners, seizure medications, and St. John's Wort, let your doctor know about all the medications you are taking.
- Viracept may cause changes in body fat distribution, such as increased fat in the upper back and neck ("buffalo hump"), breasts, and around the abdomen. It may also cause loss of fat from the face, arms, and legs.
- People with diabetes or high blood sugar levels should monitor their blood sugar levels closely while taking Viracept, as it may increase blood sugar levels.
- Viracept may cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If these side effects are severe or persistent, it is important to talk to your doctor.
- Viracept may cause skin reactions, and in rare cases, severe and potentially life-threatening skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. If you experience a rash or skin reaction while taking Viracept, seek medical attention immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Viracept be taken with other medications?
Viracept may interact with other medications, so it is important to let your doctor know about all the medications you are taking.
How is Viracept stored?
Viracept should be stored at room temperature, and away from light and moisture.
How long do I need to take Viracept?
The length of treatment with Viracept will depend on several factors, including the stage of HIV infection and your individual response to treatment. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the appropriate duration of treatment.
How often do I need to take Viracept?
The dosing frequency and schedule for Viracept will depend on several factors, including the stage of HIV infection, other medications you are taking, and your individual response to treatment.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/viracept.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/viracept-drug.htm
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020778s035,020779s056,021503s017lbl.pdf
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=e72c2bc6-9462-4a2e-8e1d-b97592376cbd
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-491/viracept-oral/details
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