Indinavir – HIV Protease Inhibitor Overview

When working with Indinavir, a protease inhibitor used to lower viral load in people living with HIV. Also known as Crixivan, it blocks the HIV enzyme that cuts viral proteins into pieces, stopping the virus from maturing.

Why does that matter? Because HIV, the virus that attacks the immune system relies on that enzyme to spread. By inhibiting it, Indinavir becomes a key piece of antiretroviral therapy, a combination of drugs that suppress HIV replication. The drug’s class, a protease inhibitor, medications that prevent the protease enzyme from processing viral proteins, is essential for shrinking the viral load and giving the immune system a chance to recover.

Key Aspects of Indinavir Treatment

First, dosing matters. Indinavir is taken with food and a full glass of water to avoid kidney stones—a side effect linked to the drug’s crystallization in the urinary tract. Second, resistance can creep in if the medication isn’t taken exactly as prescribed; HIV can mutate the protease enzyme, rendering the inhibitor less effective. That’s why doctors pair Indinavir with other classes like nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) to create a high barrier against resistance.

Third, monitoring. Patients on Indinavir need regular blood tests to track viral load, CD4 counts, and kidney function. A sudden rise in viral load often signals adherence issues or emerging resistance. Adjusting the regimen early can keep the virus in check and prevent disease progression.

Fourth, side‑effects beyond kidney stones. Some people notice increased cholesterol, lipodystrophy (fat redistribution), or mild diarrhea. Most side‑effects are manageable with lifestyle changes or dose tweaks, but severe reactions require a switch to another protease inhibitor.

Finally, the role of Indinavir today. Newer protease inhibitors offer better tolerability and once‑daily dosing, yet Indinavir remains a useful option in many parts of the world where cost is a major factor. Its long track record provides a wealth of real‑world data that helps clinicians fine‑tune treatment plans.

Putting it all together, Indinavir is more than just a pill—it’s a bridge between viral suppression and improved quality of life. Whether you’re a patient curious about why you’re on this medication, a caregiver looking for practical tips, or a health professional reviewing treatment options, understanding the drug’s mechanism, dosing nuances, resistance patterns, and side‑effect profile is crucial.

Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into related topics such as drug resistance mechanisms, comparison of protease inhibitors, and practical guides for managing side‑effects. Explore the collection to get actionable insights and stay ahead of the challenges that come with long‑term HIV therapy.