Prescription Required
Description
Viracept is an oral tablet made up of a protease inhibitor called nelfinavir. We carry both the brand choice and generic alternative of Viracept in 250mg!
Viracept is a medication used to control the human immunodeficiency virus, also known as HIV. HIV is viral infection that slowly weakens your immune system, the body’s natural defense system against disease and infection, over time. HIV is contracted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and saliva, which is why an HIV infected person should never share personal items such as toothbrushes and razors and should always wear protection (like a condom) during sexual intercourse. If HIV goes untreated for too long, the HIV infected person risks developing AIDS. A person has AIDS when HIV has weakened the immune system so much to the point where it can no longer defend against disease and infection, which can become fatal. There is no cure for HIV at this time, but using medication, HIV can be kept under control and AIDS can be prevented.
Viracept (nelfinavir) is effective at treating HIV because it is a protease inhibitor capable of decreasing the amount of the virus in the body, allowing the immune system to heal the infection much quicker and easier.
Directions
Your doctor will tell you before prescribing you Viracept (nelfinavir) exactly how to take this medication. Follow his or her directions, they can usually be found on the prescription label if you forget.
This medication is best taken with food and must be swallowed whole. If you cannot swallow it whole, an exception can be made; dissolve the tablet in a small amount of water, stir the mixture and drink all of it immediately afterwards. To ensure no medicine is left in the cup; fill with more water and drink again.
Cautions
Do not use Viracept (nelfinavir)
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to nelfinavir or if you have moderate to severe liver disease.
This medication is not approved for anyone under the age of 2 years old.
Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required
Tell your doctor if you are taking alfuzosin; pimozide; rifampin; sildenafil (Revatio for pulmonary arterial hypertension); St. John's wort; lovastatin or simvastatin; dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, ergonovine, or methylergonovine; amiodarone or quinidine; or oral midazolam, or triazolam.
To ensure this medication is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, a bleeding disorder, or high cholesterol. Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you may also have.
Risks
Serious drug interactions can occur when mixed with this drug. Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking.
This medication is not expected to harm an unborn child however that does not mean it is not possible. If you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, it is safest to let your doctor know. You may have your name added to a registry list to track the effects of nelfinavir on your baby.
Nelfinavir can cause a decrease in effectiveness in birth control pills. Use a non-hormonal method of birth control while being treated with Viracept.
You should not breast feed a child when infected with HIV. HIV can be passed into infants through breast milk.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Viracept (nelfinavir) may include:
infections; nausea, diarrhea, gas, stomach pain; loss of appetite; rash; or changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Viracept (nelfinavir) may include:
chest pain (especially when you breathe), dry cough, wheezing, feeling short of breath; cold sores, sores on your genital or anal area; rapid heart rate, feeling anxious or irritable, weakness or prickly feeling, problems with balance or eye movement; trouble speaking or swallowing, severe lower back pain, loss of bladder or bowel control; easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin; or swelling in your neck or throat (enlarged thyroid), menstrual changes, impotence, loss of interest in sex.
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.
Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…
new infection: fever, night sweats, swollen glands, cold sores, cough, wheezing, diarrhea, weight loss; or
high blood sugar: increased thirst, increased urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, blurred vision, and weight loss.
FAQs
What will my dosage be based off?
Your dose will be based on your weight, liver function, medical condition, other medications you are currently taking, and response to treatment.
Is this product safe for children?
Yes, for children 2 years old and up. Children under 2 should not use this medication.
Is there anything I should avoid while being treated with Viracept?
Avoid taking this medication at the same time as didanosine. If you must take both drugs, take didanosine, ensure you are taking it at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after your Viracept dose.
What else should I know before starting treatment?
This medication will not help with the transmission of this infection. You will still spread with infection to others if you do not take precautions. Ensure you are wearing condoms (or other forms of protective birth control) during sexual intercourse and avoid sharing personal items that may have your bodily fluids on them, such as razors, toothbrushes, or other similar items.
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