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

Chemical Formula:

• C38H50N6O5

Structure of Saquinavir

Mechanism of Action:

• Saquinavir 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:

• Saquinavir 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 saquinavir include:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

• Fatigue

Serious side effects may include:

• Hyperglycemia

• Lipodystrophy

• QT interval prolongation

• Hepatotoxicity