Viracept Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (nell-FIN-uh-veer)
Viracept Oral Uses
This drug, used in combination with at least 2 other medications, is used to help treat your HIV infection, thereby improving your quality of life. It also lowers your risk of getting HIV complications (such as new infections, cancer). Nelfinavir belongs to a class of drugs known as protease inhibitors.
Nelfinavir is not a cure for HIV. It does not prevent the spread of HIV to others through sexual contact or blood contamination (such as sharing used needles).
How To Use Viracept Oral
Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using nelfinavir and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with a meal, usually 2 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor.
If you are unable to swallow tablets, you may crush your dose and take it with food. The tablets may also be dissolved in a small amount of water. If dissolved in water, stir the mixture well and drink all of it immediately. Rinse your container with more water and drink the rinse liquid to be sure you receive the entire dose. Do not mix with acidic food or juices (such as orange juice, apple juice/sauce) since this may make the medicine taste bitter.
The dosage is based on your weight, liver function, medical condition, other medications, and response to treatment.
This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
If you are taking HIV medications for the first time, you may experience symptoms of an old infection as your immune system begins to work better. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any trouble breathing, fever, new cough, vision problems, headaches, or skin problems.
It is very important to continue taking this medication (and other HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed or stop taking it (or other HIV medicines) even for a short time unless directed to do so by your doctor. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your doctor may cause the amount of virus to increase, make the infection more difficult to treat, or worsen side effects.
