Description
LEXIVA is a prescription medication used to treat HIV infection. Left untreated, HIV infection can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
HIV is a long-term infection that weakens the immune system and leaves a person susceptible to opportunistic infections.
LEXIVA is an antiviral HIV protease inhibitor. It works by shutting down a protein critical for HIV virus replication. LEXIVA slows down replication and prevents infections from worsening.
Directions
LEXIVA must be taken every day exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
It can be taken with or without food.
Your doctor will determine the best LEXIVA dosage. Some example regimens include:
- Hepatic impairment: Adjusted based on directions from the prescriber
- Treatment-naive: LEXIVA 1400 mg by mouth twice daily plus ritonavir
- Pediatric (2 to 18 years old): Calculate based on body weight
Protease Inhibitor-experienced adults: LEXIVA 700 mg twice daily plus ritonavir 100 mg twice daily
Ingredients
The active ingredient in LEXIVA is fosamprenavir.
| Fact Table |
| Formula |
C25H36N3O9PS |
| License |
AU, EU EMA |
| Bioavailability |
- |
| Legal status |
RX Only |
| Chemical Name |
Fosamprenavir |
| Elimination half-life |
7.7 hours |
| Dosage (Strength) |
700mg (60 tablets) |
| Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
| Brands |
Lexiva, Telzir |
| Protein binding |
90% |
| PubChem CID |
131536 |
| MedlinePlus |
a604012 |
| ChEBI |
82941 |
| ATC code |
J05AE07 |
| DrugBank |
DB01319 |
| KEGG |
D02497 |
| Routes of administration |
Oral |
Interactions
LEXIVA is contraindicated when the following medications:
- Cisapride
- Delavirdine
- Dihydroergotamine
- Ergonovine
- Ergotamine
- Flecainide
- Lovastatin
- Methylergonovine
- Midazolam
- Pimozide
- Propafenone
- Rifampin
- Simvastatin
- St. John's Wort
- Triazolam
Use caution if you are taking any of the following medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist your full list of drugs before you start taking LEXIVA. Common drug interactions include:
- Alprazolam
- Amiodarone
- Atazanavir
- Atorvastatin
- Bepridil
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- Carbamazepine
- Clorazepate
- Cyclosporine
- Dexamethasone
- Diazepam
- Efavirenz
- Flurazepam
- Fluticasone
- H2 receptor antagonists
- Indinavir
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Lidocaine
- Lopinavir/ritonavir
- Methadone
- Nelfinavir
- Nevirapine
- Oral contraceptives
- Paroxetine
- PDE5 Inhibitors
- Phenobarbital
- Phenytoin
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Quinidine
- Rapamycin
- Rifabutin
- Rosuvastatin
- Saquinavir
- Tacrolimus
- Trazodone
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Warfarin
Cautions
Tell your doctor if you have a history of nephrolithiasis, diabetes, anemia, hemophilia, high cholesterol, hepatitis B or C, or a sulfonamide allergy.
LEXIVA may cause fat redistribution and immune reconstitution syndrome.
If a skin reaction happens while taking LEXIVA, stop taking the drug, and call your doctor's office.
Side Effects
Adverse reactions from LEXIVA may include:
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nausea
- Rash
- Vomiting
For a full list of side effects, speak with your pharmacist.
References
Lexiva [package insert]. Research Triangle Park, NJ: GlaxoSmithKline; 2009.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lexiva
What is Lexiva?
Lexiva, also known by its generic name fosamprenavir, is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV infection. It is a protease inhibitor that works by stopping the virus from multiplying in the body.
How is Lexiva taken?
Lexiva can be taken with or without food. It is usually prescribed in combination with other antiretroviral medications. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions on how to take this medication.
What are the side effects of Lexiva?
Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and changes in body fat distribution. Some serious side effects can include liver problems, high blood sugar, and severe skin reactions. Always report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor.
Can I take Lexiva while pregnant or breastfeeding?
It's essential to talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding while considering Lexiva treatment. The effects of Lexiva on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not fully known.
How does Lexiva interact with other medications?
Lexiva can interact with many other medications, leading to decreased effectiveness or increased side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking.
Do I still need to practice safe sex while on Lexiva?
Yes, while Lexiva helps control HIV infection, it does not cure it. You can still pass HIV to others even when taking this medication. It is important to continue practicing safe sex and using other preventive measures to prevent spreading the virus.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Can Lexiva cure HIV?
No, Lexiva does not cure HIV. It helps control the infection and decrease the amount of virus in your body.
What should I monitor while on Lexiva?
Your healthcare provider will monitor your viral load, CD4 counts, and other lab values while you are on Lexiva. Additionally, be aware of any side effects and report them to your doctor.
How should I store Lexiva?
Store Lexiva at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 12590
Prescription Required
