What is Viracept ?
Viracept belongs to a class of drugs called protease inhibitors which are used to treat HIV infection. In order to treat HIV effectively, Viracept MUST be taken in combination with other HIV medications as prescribed.

How does Viracept work ?
Viracept interferes with a particular HIV specific enzyme. This enzyme is important because it allows for the production of new HIV viruses which can infect more T-cells (CD4 immune cells). When Viracept is taken in combination with other HIV medications the goal is to prevent the virus from further weakening the immune system. If Viracept is effective then you should expect to see an increase in T-cells and decrease in HIV viral load. Not everybody responds to Viracept, however, you can improve the chance that Viracept will work by taking all your medications everyday.

What does Viracept look like and how should Viracept be taken ?
Viracept is available as two doses, a blue 250mg tablet and a white 625mg tablet. The dose of Viracept of 1250mg twice a day (5 blue tablets twice or 2 white tablets twice a day). Viracept should always be taken with food.

It is very important to try not to miss or skip any doses. The fewer doses a person skips the fewer opportunities the HIV virus has to develop resistance to the medication.

What are the potential side effects of Viracept ?
The most common side effect is diarrhea which often improves after the first few weeks. Your medical provider may prescribe medication such as loperamide (Imodium) or Lomotil to prevent diarrhea caused by Viracept. Other side effects include nausea and fatigue.

Are there potential drug interactions with Viracept ?
YES, therefore it is important to tell your medical provider or pharmacist all other medications you are taking.