Crixivan

(Indinavir Sulfate)

The active ingredient in Crixivan is indinavir sulfate. It is a type of antiviral that belongs to the HIV protease inhibitor drug class. Crixivan works by blocking the HIV protease enzyme, which the virus needs to cut newly made viral proteins into their active forms. When this enzyme is inhibited, the virus produces immature, non-infectious particles that cannot replicate properly. This reduces the amount of HIV in the blood and helps slow the progression of the disease.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Crixivan. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Crixivan:

• Crixivan is taken by mouth every 8 hours, usually on an empty stomach with water.
• Drink plenty of water during the day to reduce the risk of kidney stones (nephrolithiasis).
• Crixivan is almost always used in combination with other antiretroviral medicines as part of antiretroviral therapy.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double doses.

Some mild or common side effects of Crixivan seen in clinical trials include:

• Headache.
• Nausea.
• Back pain.
• Taste changes.
• Stomach discomfort.
• Increased indirect bilirubin.
• Changes in body fat distribution.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Crixivan. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe flank pain or blood in the urine may signal nephrolithiasis.
• Signs of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), such as increased thirst or urination.
• Severe rash or allergic reactions.
• Signs of immune system changes, including new infections.
• Liver problems such as jaundice or dark urine.
• Life-threatening reactions when taken with certain interacting drugs.

These are not all of the possible adverse events with Crixivan. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Crixivan, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• A history of kidney stones.
• Liver disease or abnormal liver tests.
• Diabetes or rising blood sugar levels.
• Hemophilia or bleeding problems.
• HIV infection with advanced disease.
• A history of high bilirubin.

Any condition requiring the use of medicines that strongly interact with protease inhibitors.

Crixivan should not be used in individuals who:

• Are allergic to indinavir or any component of the medication.
• Take specific drugs that can lead to serious or life-threatening reactions when combined with protease inhibitors.

Crixivan begins lowering HIV levels within days, although improvement in immune function is measured over weeks to months. Consistent use as directed and regular follow-up are essential.

When Crixivan is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Rifampin, because it greatly reduces indinavir levels.
• Atazanavir, due to overlapping protease inhibitor effects.
• Ritonavir, which may be used to boost indinavir but also increases side effects.
• Certain sedatives, antiarrhythmics, and ergot medicines listed by the FDA that may cause life-threatening toxicity.

Crixivan is available as oral capsules in multiple strengths, used for dosing every 8 hours.

The dose may differ for adults, adolescents, or HIV-infected pediatric patients depending on body weight and treatment goals.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Crixivan is manufactured by Merck & Co.

Yes. Crixivan is available as a generic version.

Do not stop taking Crixivan without instruction from your healthcare provider. Stopping therapy suddenly may increase HIV levels and reduce the effectiveness of your antiretroviral regimen.

It is not known if Crixivan is safe to use while pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known if Crixivan can be passed to your baby in your breast milk and whether it could harm your baby. Also, mothers with HIV-1 should not breastfeed because HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in the breast milk.