Nelfinavir belongs to a new class of drugs called the HIV protease inhibitors. It interferes with a different step in virus
reproduction than other drugs previously available to fight HIV. Nelfinavir is an antiretroviral medication that slows down
the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and may therefore slow the progression of HIV disease.
Nelfinavir does not cure HIV nor does it prevent HIV transmission. As the effect of nelfinavir may decrease with time, it is
important that your progress is assessed regularly. It is not currently known how long the beneficial effects of this medication will last.
HOW should this drug be taken?
Nelfinavir is available as 250 mg blue tablets.
The recommended dose of nelfinavir is 750mg (3 x 250mg tablets) three times daily (for a total of 9 tablets each day). It
may also be taken 1250 mg (5 x 250 mg tablets) every 12 hours. It should be taken with food, either a meal or light snack.
Your dosage is:
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Tablets should be swallowed whole with some water or non-alcoholic drink. You should avoid excessive consumption of
alcohol during your treatment. Your doctor may prescribe nelfinavir in combination with other drugs which are used to
control HIV infection. Your physician may adjust the recommended dose to suit your particular needs. FOLLOW THE ADVICE OF YOUR DOCTOR.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
The missed dose should be taken as soon as you remember, then return to your regular dosing schedule. If you skip a
dose (i.e. don't remember until the next dose is due), do not double the next dose. If you are unsure, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause? What should you do about them?
The most common side effect with nelfinavir is diarrhea. This can usually be controlled with non-prescription drugs, such
as loperamide. Other side effects that may occur are nausea, flatulence and rash. If these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
The long-term effects of nelfinavir are unknown at this time. Further clinical studies are being carried out.
Side effects known to be associated with other drugs used to treat HIV may still occur when nelfinavir is used in
combination with these medications. If you are concerned about any unexpected effects, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR REGULAR DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug?
This medication can interact with some drugs. It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about other drugs you are
taking, even those you can buy without a prescription.
Do not use the following drugs while taking nelfinavir:
- astemizole (e.g. Hismanal)
- terfenadine (e.g. Seldane)
- cisapride (e.g. Prepulsid)
- rifampin (e.g. Rifadin, Rimactane, Rofact)
- midazolam (e.g. Versed)
- triazolam (e.g. Halcion)
Please inform your physician or pharmacist if you are taking any of the above medications so that your dosage may be adjusted, or an alternative medication may be selected.
The safety of nelfinavir in pregnancy and breast feeding has yet to be established. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if it is a concern.
Nelfinavir may reduce the efficacy of birth control pills. Alternate or additional contraceptive measures should be used if taking oral contraceptives.
How should this medication be STORED?
Nelfinavir should be stored in a cool (15-30°C) dry place, well out of the reach of children. Do not store in your bathroom. Heat and moisture may cause the medicine to lose its effectiveness.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST, NURSE, OR PHYSICIAN.
PLEASE WRITE DOWN YOUR QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________Please ask for ____________________
