Agenerase

Pronounced: ah-JEN-eh-race
Generic name: Amprenavir

Why is Agenerase prescribed?

Agenerase is one of the many drugs now used to combat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. HIV undermines the immune system, reducing the body's ability to fight off other infections and eventually leading to the deadly condition known as acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Agenerase slows the progress of HIV by interfering with an important step in the virus's reproductive cycle. The drug is a member of the group of "protease inhibitors" famous for having successfully halted the advance of the virus in many HIV-positive individuals. Agenerase is prescribed only as part of a "drug cocktail" that attacks the virus on several fronts. It is not used alone.

Most important fact about Agenerase

Agenerase is not a cure for HIV infection or AIDS. It does not completely eliminate HIV from the body or totally restore the immune system. There is still a danger of developing serious opportunistic infections (infections that develop when the immune system falters). It's important, therefore, to continue seeing your doctor for regular blood counts and tests. And notify your doctor immediately of any changes in your general health.

How should you take Agenerase?

With the exception of high-fat meals, Agenerase may be taken with or without food. (Excessive fat decreases the amount of medicine that gets into the bloodstream.)

It is important to keep adequate levels of the drug in your bloodstream at all times, so be sure to take Agenerase exactly as prescribed, even when you're feeling better. Do not substitute Agenerase oral solution for the capsules. The two are not interchangeable.

If you are also taking antacids or the HIV drug didanosine (Videx), be sure to allow at least 1 hour between a dose of either medicine and a dose of Agenerase.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.