Overview

Invirase was a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral medications. Invirase was indicated for people 16 years and older. Invirase was also referred to by its drug name, saquinavir, and by the abbreviation SQV. 

Invirase was an antiviral medication of the protease inhibitor (PI) class. Invirase was believed to work by preventing HIV from replicating in cells.

How was it taken?

Prescribing information states that Invirase was taken twice daily. Invirase came in tablet and capsule forms.

Side effects

The FDA-approved label for Invirase listed common side effects including nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, weakness, and changes in the shape or location of body fat. 

Rare but serious side effects listed for Invirase included chest pain, rapid heart rate, trouble breathing or swallowing, extreme weakness, or signs of a new infection.

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Label: Invirase — Saquinavir Mesylate Tablet, Film Coated — DailyMed