Market Name: Invirase

Generic Name: Saquinavir mesylate

Invirase is one of a group of drugs known as protease inhibitors, and is used for the treatment of HIV and AIDS. Invirase works by preventing T-Cells that have been infected by HIV from producing new HIV. Invirase/ritonavir should not be given together with rifampin, due to the risk of severe hepatocellular toxicity if the three drugs are given together.

A black box warning was added to Invirase’s packaging by the FDA in September of 2005.

Black Box Warning Date: September 2005

FDA Link: Invirase