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Indinavir: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side Effects

Chemical Formula:

  • C36H47N5O4

Structure of Indinavir
Structure of Indinavir

Mechanism of Action:

  • Indinavir is a protease inhibitor (PI) that works against HIV.

  • PIs inhibit the viral protease enzyme, which is necessary for the cleavage of viral polyprotein precursors into functional proteins.

  • By inhibiting protease, PIs prevent the maturation of new viral particles, reducing viral replication.

Uses:

  • Indinavir is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for the treatment of HIV infection.

Side Effects:

Some common side effects of indinavir include:

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

  • Abdominal pain

  • Headache

  • Fatigue

Serious side effects may include:

  • Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)

  • Hyperbilirubinemia

  • Hepatotoxicity

  • Hyperglycemia

  • Lipodystrophy


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