HIV protease inhibitors: Advances in therapy and adverse reactions, including metabolic complications

Protease inhibitors (PIs) effectively inhibit replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and reduce mortality and prolong survival in patients with HIV infection. Newer PIs saquinavir (soft gelatin capsule) and amprenavir, as well as other PIs, may be effective when administered twice/day. Adverse reactions may occur, as well as metabolic complications and interactions between PIs and other drugs, including other PIs. The strategy of combining PIs is based on specific pharmacologic interactions among the agents.