| Indinavir | Medication Information and Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Recommended Dose and Dosage Regimen | The recommended dose of indinavir for adults is typically 800 mg every 8 hours or 800 mg with 100 mg of ritonavir every 12 hours. Dosing may vary based on the patient’s renal function and other factors. |
| Frequency of Administration | Indinavir is usually administered every 8 hours without ritonavir or every 12 hours with ritonavir. |
| Route of Administration | The drug is administered orally in the form of capsules. |
| Mechanism of Action (MOA) | Indinavir is a protease inhibitor that works by blocking the activity of HIV-1 protease, an enzyme essential for the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). |
| Pharmacokinetics (PK) | Following oral administration, indinavir is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1 to 2 hours. It is extensively metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily via the feces. |
| Pharmacodynamics (PD) | Indinavir inhibits the cleavage of viral Gag-Pol polyproteins by HIV-1 protease, preventing the formation of mature infectious viral particles. This action helps suppress viral replication and reduce viral load in HIV-infected individuals. |
| Pathophysiology | Indinavir is used in the treatment of HIV infection, particularly in combination with other antiretroviral agents, to suppress viral replication and reduce the progression of HIV-related diseases. |
| Primary Indications | The primary indication for prescribing indinavir is the management of HIV infection in adults and children aged over 2 years as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). |
| Contraindications | Contraindications to using indinavir include hypersensitivity to the drug, concurrent use of certain medications that may interact adversely, severe hepatic impairment, and concomitant use of St. John’s Wort. |
| Purpose of Taking Medication | The purpose of taking indinavir is to suppress HIV replication, reduce viral load, preserve immune function, and delay the progression of HIV-related illnesses, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). |
| Usage Instructions | Indinavir should be taken with water on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. The dose should be swallowed whole and not chewed, broken, or crushed to ensure optimal absorption. |
| Other Reasons for Using Medication | Indinavir may also be used off-label for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV during pregnancy and childbirth, although the preferred regimen for this indication may vary based on clinical guidelines. |
| Specific Precautions | Patients taking indinavir should be monitored regularly for signs of hepatotoxicity, nephrolithiasis (kidney stones), and metabolic disturbances, such as hyperbilirubinemia and hyperlipidemia. |
| Dietary Considerations | Patients should maintain adequate hydration while taking indinavir to minimize the risk of nephrolithiasis. Avoiding high-fat meals may help reduce the risk of adverse gastrointestinal effects associated with the drug. |
| Missed Dose | If a dose of indinavir is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Patients should not double up on doses to make up for missed ones. |
| Possible Side Effects | Common side effects of indinavir include gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort), metabolic abnormalities (hyperbilirubinemia, hyperlipidemia), and kidney stones. |
| Storage and Disposal | Indinavir should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Unused or expired medication should be disposed of properly according to local regulations or by consulting a pharmacist. |
| Emergency Situations | In case of an overdose or emergency situation, medical assistance should be sought immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe gastrointestinal disturbances, metabolic abnormalities, and renal impairment. |
| Monitoring and Laboratory Tests | Patients taking indinavir may require regular monitoring of renal function, liver function, lipid profiles, and HIV viral load to assess treatment response and detect any adverse effects or complications early. |
This table provides comprehensive information and guidelines for the use of indinavir as a medication for the treatment of HIV infection. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations.