Why is this medication prescribed?

How should this medicine be used?

Crixivan is typically used in combination with other antiretroviral medications as part of a comprehensive HIV treatment regimen. Here are the general guidelines for its usage:

• Dosage: The usual adult dose of Crixivan is 800 mg (two 400 mg capsules) taken orally every 8 hours. It’s important to take it exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Crixivan should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. This enhances its absorption.
• Adherence: It’s crucial to take Crixivan regularly and consistently as prescribed. Missing doses or not following the schedule can lead to reduced effectiveness and the development of drug-resistant strains of HIV.
• Other medications: Since Crixivan is part of a combination therapy, you’ll likely be taking other HIV medications alongside it. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the timing and dosage of each medication.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your HIV viral load and CD4 cell count to assess how well the treatment is working. Based on these results, adjustments to your medication regimen may be necessary.
• Side effects: Like all medications, Crixivan can cause side effects. Common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and changes in taste. Serious side effects such as kidney stones or liver problems are possible but less common.
• Storage: Store Crixivan capsules at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep them in the original container with the lid tightly closed.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about taking Crixivan or any other medications prescribed for HIV treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and specific circumstances.

Other uses for this medicine

Crixivan (indinavir) is primarily used for the treatment of HIV infection, but there are no other widely recognized medical uses for this medication beyond its antiretroviral properties.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Crixivan:

• Kidney Stones: Crixivan can increase the risk of developing kidney stones, especially if you are not adequately hydrated. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids (at least 1.5 liters or about 6 cups per day) to reduce this risk. Your healthcare provider may also recommend periodic monitoring of kidney function.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Common side effects of Crixivan include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Taking Crixivan with food can help reduce these symptoms. If severe gastrointestinal symptoms occur, inform your doctor.
• Liver Function: Crixivan can affect liver enzymes. Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be recommended, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions or are taking other medications that affect the liver.
• Drug Interactions: Crixivan interacts with many other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of Crixivan with your doctor. The effects of Crixivan on pregnancy are not well studied, and it is not known whether Crixivan passes into breast milk.
• Resistance and Adherence: Taking Crixivan consistently and as prescribed is crucial to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains of HIV. Missing doses or not following the dosing schedule can decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of allergic reactions to indinavir or other medications.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your HIV viral load, CD4 cell count, and overall health status.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask them if you have any questions or concerns about using Crixivan or any other medications prescribed for HIV treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and specific circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Empty Stomach: Crixivan should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. This helps to ensure optimal absorption of the medication.
• Food Interaction: While Crixivan is recommended to be taken on an empty stomach, if you experience significant gastrointestinal discomfort, you can take it with a light meal. However, high-fat meals should be avoided as they can decrease the absorption of Crixivan.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Crixivan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

It’s important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to keep the medication levels effective in your body and to minimize the risk of developing drug-resistant HIV strains. If you frequently forget doses or have trouble adhering to the schedule, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide strategies to help you maintain adherence to your treatment regimen.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Crixivan (indinavir), like all medications, can cause side effects. Here are some of the potential side effects associated with Crixivan:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are common side effects of Crixivan. These symptoms can often be managed by taking the medication with food or adjusting the timing of doses.
• Kidney Stones: Crixivan can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. This risk is higher if you are not drinking enough fluids. It’s important to stay well hydrated while taking Crixivan (at least 1.5 liters or about 6 cups per day) to help prevent kidney stones.
• Liver Enzyme Changes: Crixivan can affect liver enzymes, which may be detected through blood tests. Regular monitoring of liver function may be necessary, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions or are taking other medications that affect the liver.
• Metabolic Effects: Changes in blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia) and fat redistribution (lipodystrophy) have been reported in some individuals taking Crixivan.
• Skin Reactions: Skin rash and itching are possible side effects of Crixivan. Severe skin reactions are rare but can occur.
• Other Common Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, fatigue, taste changes, and changes in appetite have also been reported with Crixivan use.
• Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS): In HIV-infected individuals, initiation of antiretroviral therapy (including Crixivan) may trigger an inflammatory response to pre-existing infections. This is known as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome and can cause symptoms related to the underlying infection.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions to Crixivan, although rare, can occur. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some side effects may resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience any concerning or persistent side effects while taking Crixivan, notify your healthcare provider. They can offer guidance on managing side effects or may adjust your treatment regimen if necessary.

Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are crucial to ensure the effectiveness and safety of your HIV treatment with Crixivan.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Crixivan:

• Storage: Store Crixivan capsules at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Crixivan capsules in a way that is safe and environmentally responsible. Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after taking Crixivan, seek emergency medical attention or call your local poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, or rapid breathing.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your HIV viral load, CD4 cell count, and overall health while you are taking Crixivan. This monitoring helps to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and detect any potential side effects or complications early.
• Adherence to Treatment: It is crucial to take Crixivan exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Missing doses or not following the dosing schedule can reduce the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of developing drug-resistant HIV strains.
• Drug Interactions: Crixivan interacts with many other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
• Routine Health Care: Maintain regular visits with your healthcare provider for comprehensive HIV care, including screenings for other infections and management of any co-existing conditions.
• Lifestyle Considerations: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding substances like alcohol and tobacco, can support your overall health and well-being while managing HIV with Crixivan.
• Support Services: Utilize support services such as HIV/AIDS clinics, support groups, or counseling services to help you manage the emotional and social aspects of living with HIV.
• Travel Considerations: If you plan to travel, ensure you have an adequate supply of Crixivan. Carry your medications in their original containers, along with a copy of your prescription, in case you need to refill or replace them while away from home.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the use of Crixivan or any other aspects of your HIV treatment. They can provide personalized guidance and support based on your individual medical history and needs.