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Nelfinavir

Antiretroviral

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What is nelfinavir?

Nelfinavir (also called Viracept®) is used to treat infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This medicine is one of a group called protease inhibitors (PIs). Protease is the part of the virus that allows it to multiply, leave the cell, and move into the blood and body. Nelfinavir can slow down how soon you will see symptoms or slow the damage caused by HIV, but it cannot cure HIV infection. This medicine is available as an oral powder and as a 250-mg tablet. Both are taken by mouth.

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Possible side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • High blood sugar levels
  • Rash
  • High blood cholesterol levels

    These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take nelfinavir will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Store nelfinavir tablets and oral powder at room temperature. Keep this medicine away from heat and moisture.
  • Blood tests can find some side effects, such as a high level of blood cholesterol and a high level of blood sugar. It is very important that you come to the clinic regularly for blood tests.
  • Several medicines may affect the way nelfinavir works. These medicines include carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, and St. John’s wort.
  • Nelfinavir may affect the way other medicines work. These medicines include amiodarone, atorvastatin, cyclosporin, lovastatin, birth control pills, and simvastatin.
  • Always tell the doctor if you are taking any of these medicines, or if you start taking any new medicines while you are taking nelfinavir.

Drug at Home:

  • Nelfinavir is usually taken 2 or 3 times a day.
  • Take nelfinavir with food.
  • If you are unable to swallow tablets, dissolve crushed nelfinavir tablets or the oral powder in a small amount of water, milk, or baby formula. As soon as the medicine dissolves, you must drink all of the liquid to get the full dose.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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