Nelfinavir, also known as Viracept, is a type of medicine called a protease inhibitor (PI). Nelfinavir works by blocking protease, an enzyme that HIV needs to make more copies of itself.
During the normal HIV life cycle, an HIV enzyme called protease cuts long chains of HIV proteins into smaller proteins. As the smaller HIV proteins come together, a new virus particle is assembled. When nelfinavir is present, however, it binds to the HIV protease enzyme. This process prevents the protease enzyme from working, thereby preventing the formation of mature virus particles.
HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
Nelfinavir was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on March 14, 1997, for use with other antiretroviral agents in the treatment of HIV infection in adults and children 2 years of age or older. It is also used for the prevention of HIV infection in individuals who have been exposed to the virus.
In June 2007, high levels of ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), a chemical used during the making of nelfinavir, were detected in European-made nelfinavir by the European manufacturer Roche Ltd. The U.S. manufacturer Pfizer released a statement in September 2007 to inform doctors that some amounts of EMS have been detected in nelfinavir manufactured in the United States. EMS may cause cancer in humans; in animals, EMS has caused birth defects and cancer. Effective March 31, 2008, Pfizer and FDA agreed upon a limit for EMS and agreed that nelfinavir is now safe for use in all patient populations including pregnant females and children.
Nelfinavir does not cure HIV infection or AIDS and does not reduce the risk of passing the virus to other people.
Dosage Form/Administration
Always take this medication as your doctor instructs. Nelfinavir is taken by mouth, with food (or with a meal), and it always must be taken with other anti-HIV medications.
Dosage forms and strengths:
- Tablets: 250 mg or 625 mg
- Oral powder: 50 mg/gram (50 mg per each level scoopful)
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
- Store nelfinavir tablets and oral powder at room temperature (between 59°F and 86°F) away from moisture and heat.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose:
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
What other information should I know?
- Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
- It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Recommended Daily Dose
FDA Dosing Recommendations for Adults
- Nelfinavir 1250 mg (five 250 mg tablets or two 625 mg tablets) taken twice daily by mouth and with a meal OR nelfinavir 750 mg (three 250 mg tablets) taken three times daily by mouth and with a meal.
FDA Dosing Recommendations for Pediatric Patients (2 to 13 years of age)
- The nelfinavir dose in children is based on their weight.
- The dose of nelfinavir oral powder or 250 mg tablets is 45 to 55 mg/kg taken twice daily by mouth and with a meal OR 25 to 35 mg/kg taken three times daily by mouth and with a meal.
Note:
- Your doctor or healthcare provider will assess the appropriate dosage form and dose for each patient. It is important to take your medicine exactly as prescribed.
- If you or your child is unable to swallow tablets, dissolve tablets in a small amount of water. Once dissolved, mix well and drink this mixture immediately. Refill the glass with some water and drink again to make sure the entire dose has been consumed.
- Nelfinavir oral powder may be mixed with a small amount of water, milk, formula, soy formula, soy milk, dietary supplements, or dairy foods (such as pudding or ice cream). Once mixed, the entire amount must be taken immediately. If the mixture is not taken immediately, it must be refrigerated and can be stored for up to 6 hours. Do not heat mixture.
- To avoid a bitter taste, it is not recommended to mix oral powder with acidic foods or juices, such as orange or grapefruit juice, apple or apple sauce.
- Do not add water to original containers of nelfinavir oral powder. Nelfinavir oral powder is supplied with a scoop for measuring.
- Nelfinavir oral powder contains aspartame and should not be taken by children with phenylketonuria (PKU).
- Nelfinavir should not be used in patients with moderate or severe hepatic (liver) disease.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of nelfinavir to make up for a missed dose.
Contraindications
What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking nelfinavir,
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to nelfinavir or any other medications.
- Certain medicines must not be used if you are taking nelfinavir. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you more carefully for side effects.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking nelfinavir, call your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. You should not breastfeed if you are infected with HIV or if you are taking nelfinavir.
- Tell your doctor about any medical problems you may have, such as liver or kidney disease. Nelfinavir should not be used in patients with moderate or severe liver disease.
Possible Side Effects
Nelfinavir may cause side effects.
The following life-threatening or severe side effects have been reported. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
• Allergic Reaction (Hypersensitivity Reaction). Seek medical attention right away if you develop any of the following symptoms:
- difficulty breathing
- chest pain or tightness
- fast heartbeat
- unusual skin rash or peeling of the skin
- hives
- swelling of tongue or face
• Liver (Hepatic) Problems. The following signs/symptoms may be associated with liver injury:
- abdominal pain and/or swelling
- unusual tiredness (fatigue)
- fever
- yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- loss of appetite
- nausea and vomiting
- dark colored urine
- abnormal liver function blood tests
• Hemophilia (Bleeding Disorder). In patients with hemophilia, there have been reports of increased bleeding and spontaneous (sudden) bleeding. If you have hemophilia and notice any unusual bleeding, contact your doctor immediately.
• Diabetes/Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). This side effect may occur in patients taking protease inhibitors, such as nelfinavir. Some patients, who never had diabetes, may develop diabetes. Some patients, who already have diabetes, may develop worsening of their condition. There have been reports of diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious complication of diabetes). If you develop any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right away:
- increased thirst
- unexplained weight loss
- increased urination
- fatigue
- unusually dry or itchy skin
- shortness of breath
- difficulty breathing
- increased or decreased appetite
- fruity breath (breath odor)
- abdominal pain
- mental status changes
Some side effects can be serious. The following side effects have occurred:
• Changes in body fat (fat redistribution/accumulation). Changes in body fat may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (known as “buffalo hump”), breast, and around the trunk. Loss of fat may occur from the legs, arms, and face.
Other less serious side effects have also been reported:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- gas
- mild rash
Nelfinavir may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the U.S. FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch or by phone at 1-800-332-1088.
Drug and Food Interactions
Nelfinavir may interact with other medicines. Before taking nelfinavir, it is important to tell your doctor about any prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take.
The use of certain medicines with nelfinavir can cause life-threatening problems. Do not take nelfinavir if you are taking any of the following medicines:
- alfuzosin
- amiodarone or quinidine
- ergot derivatives: dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, ergotamine, methylergonovine
- pimozide
- sildenafil (when used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension)
- midazolam
- triazolam
- lovastatin
- simvastatin
Other medicines that should not be used with nelfinavir include the following:
- rifampin
- St. John’s wort (hypericum perforatum)
- omeprazole
- phenobarbital
- carbamazepine
- salmeterol
Medicines that may require dose adjustments or other considerations when taken with nelfinavir:
- atorvastatin, rosuvastatin
- PDE5 inhibitors: sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil
- bosentan
- colchicine
- didanosine
- delavirdine
- indinavir
- ritonavir
- saquinavir
- rifabutin
- phenytoin
- warfarin
- oral contraceptives: If you are taking oral birth control pills to prevent pregnancy, you should use additional or a different type of contraception since nelfinavir may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
In addition to the lists above, there are many other medicines that may interact with nelfinavir. For a complete list of all medicines that may interact with nelfinavir, talk with your doctor or pharmacist and check the manufacturer’s website for the full prescribing information.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet. Nelfinavir should be taken with food.
Clinical Trials
Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Nelfinavir.
Manufacturer Information
Nelfinavir
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985
Viracept
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985
All Content Last Reviewed: March 4, 2011
Last Updated: March 4, 2012
Drug Description
Nelfinavir, a synthetic antiretroviral agent, is a nonpeptidic protease inhibitor (PI). [1]
References
[1] AHFS Drug Information 2007; p. 649
HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
Nelfinavir mesylate was approved by the FDA on March 14, 1997, for use in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV infection in adults and children 2 years of age or older. [1] [2] It is also used in conjunction with other antiretroviral agents for postexposure prophylaxis in healthcare workers and other individuals exposed occupationally to blood, tissues, or other body fluids associated with a risk for transmission of HIV. [3]
In June 2007, high levels of ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), a chemical used during the making of nelfinavir, were detected in European-made nelfinavir by the European manufacturer Roche Ltd. The U.S. manufacturer Pfizer released a statement in September 2007 to inform doctors that some amounts of EMS have been detected in nelfinavir manufactured in the United States. EMS may cause cancer in humans; in animals, EMS has caused birth defects and cancer. [4]
European-made nelfinavir was recalled in June 2007 by the European Union because of high levels of EMS.
As of March 31, 2008, Pfizer and FDA agreed on a final limit for EMS and nelfinavir is now safe for all patient populations, including pregnant females and pediatric patients. [5]
References
[1] FDA Antiretroviral Drugs Used in the Treatment of HIV Infection. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm118915.htm. Accessed 03/14/08.
[2] FDA Approved Antiretroviral Drugs for Pediatric Treatment of HIV Infection. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm118951.htm. Accessed 03/14/08.
[3] AHFS Drug Information 2007; p. 650
[4] FDA Viracept (nelfinavir mesylate) 250 mg, 625 mg Tablets, Powder for Suspension: Important Information for Prescribers. [Dear Health Care Professional Letter]. New York: Pfizer; September 10, 2007 - Available at: http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/UCM154880.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[5] FDA Viracept (nelfinavir mesylate) 250 mg, 625 mg Tablets, Powder for Suspension: Important Information for Prescribers. [Dear Health Care Professional Letter]. New York: Pfizer; May 6, 2008 - Available at: http://aidsinfo.nih.gov/contentfiles/NFV_prescribing_info.pdf. Accessed 05/09/08.
Dosing Information
Mode of Delivery
Oral. [1]
Dosage Form
Film-coated tablets containing nelfinavir 250 mg or 625 mg. [2]
Oral powder containing nelfinavir free base 50 mg per 1 g powder. [3]
The recommended dose of nelfinavir is 1,250 mg (five 250-mg tablets or two 625-mg tablets) twice daily or 750 mg (three 250-mg tablets) three times daily. [4]
The recommended dose of nelfinavir for children age 2 years and older is 45 to 55 mg/kg per dose twice daily, or 25 to 35 mg/kg per dose three times daily. [5]
Storage
Store nelfinavir mesylate tablets and powder between 15 C and 30 C (59 F and 86 F) in the original tightly closed container. [6]
Oral powder may be mixed with a small amount of water, milk, formula, soy products, or other dietary supplements. Mixed powder may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours. [7]
References
[1] AHFS Drug Information 2007; p. 650
[2] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 28. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[3] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 29. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[4] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 27-8. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[5] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 27-8. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[6] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 29. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[7] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 28. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
Pharmacology
Nelfinavir is a selective, competitive, reversible inhibitor of HIV protease, an enzyme that plays an essential role in HIV replication. Nelfinavir is pharmacologically related to other HIV PIs but is structurally different from these and other antiretroviral drugs that are currently available. Nelfinavir's structure inhibits the function of HIV protease, interfering with the formation of essential viral proteins. The drug is active in both acutely and chronically infected cells; chronically infected cells are not affected by nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Although nelfinavir does not affect early stages of the HIV replication cycle, it does interfere with the production of infectious HIV, limiting further spread of the virus. [1]
Nelfinavir is active against HIV-1 and -2. Unlike nucleoside analogue antiretroviral agents, nelfinavir's antiviral activity does not require intracellular conversion to an active metabolite. PIs, including nelfinavir, act at a different stage of HIV replication than do NRTIs and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). In vitro studies indicate that the antiretroviral effects of HIV PIs and some NRTIs or NNRTIs may be synergistic. [2]
Nelfinavir is well absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations attained within 2 to 4 hours when 500 to 800 mg doses are administered with food. Distribution of nelfinavir into human tissues has not been fully characterized; however, following oral administration in animals, the volume of nelfinavir distribution suggests extensive tissue distribution. Results from a study of HIV infected adults receiving nelfinavir showed no detectable concentrations of the drug in cerebrospinal fluid in samples taken from 0.5 to 10 hours after administration. [3]
Highly variable drug exposure remains a significant problem with the use of nelfinavir in pediatric patients. Unpredictable drug exposure may be exacerbated in pediatric patients because of increased clearance compared to adults and difficulties with compliance and adequate food intake with dosing. [4]
Nelfinavir is in FDA Pregnancy Category B. It is not known whether nelfinavir crosses the human placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies to date using nelfinavir in pregnant women. Nelfinavir should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. An Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry has been established to monitor the outcomes of pregnant women exposed to antiretroviral agents, including nelfinavir. Physicians may register patients either online at http://www.APRegistry.com or by calling 1-800-258-4263. It is not known whether nelfinavir is distributed into human milk; however, it is distributed into milk in rats. Breastfeeding is not recommended for HIV infected mothers because of the potential for HIV transmission to the breastfed infant. [5]
Nelfinavir is more than 98% bound to plasma proteins. [6] Because nelfinavir is metabolized to many oxidative metabolites, principally by the liver, the manufacturer recommends caution when administering the drug to patients with hepatic impairment. Metabolism is mediated by several cytochrome (CYP) P450 isoenzymes, including CYP3A and CYP2C19. In patients older than 13 years, plasma elimination half-life is 3.5 to 5 hours; in children 2 to 13 years old, nelfinavir clearance is two to three times greater than in adults. Nelfinavir is excreted principally in the feces, both as unchanged drug and metabolites. [7]
Generally, multiple mutations are necessary for high level resistance to HIV PIs. Nelfinavir-resistant variants with more than one mutation have been isolated in vitro. In clinical trials, patients receiving nelfinavir had HIV variants with mutations at amino acid positions 30, 35, 36, 46, 71, 77, and 88. The principal initial amino acid change occurs at position 30 and appears necessary for nelfinavir resistance. In clinical studies, the overall incidence of the D30N mutation among patients receiving nelfinavir alone or in combination with NRTIs was 54.8%. The overall incidence for other mutations associated with primary resistance was 9.6% for the L90M substitution, whereas substitutions at 48, 82, or 84 were not observed. [8]
Clinical evidence suggests that some degree of cross resistance can occur among various HIV PIs; however, cross resistance between nelfinavir and other PIs has not been fully explored. Limited evidence suggests that mutations associated with decreased susceptibility to nelfinavir are different from those associated with decreased susceptibility to other PIs. Mutations associated with resistance to other PIs appear to confer high-level cross resistance to nelfinavir. Cross resistance between nelfinavir and NRTIs and NNRTIs is highly unlikely because these drugs target different enzymes. [9]
References
[1] AHFS Drug Information 2007; pp. 655-6
[2] AHFS Drug Information 2007; pp. 655-6
[3] AHFS Drug Information 2007; p. 657
[4] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 6, 23. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[5] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 22-3. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[6] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 5. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[7] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 5-6, 16. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[8] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 2. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[9] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 2. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
Adverse Events/Toxicity
Nelfinavir appears well tolerated; its principal adverse effects are mild to moderate diarrhea and nausea. Other reactions include flatulence and rash. [1]
Redistribution of body fat, peripheral wasting, facial wasting, breast enlargement, and cushingoid appearance have been observed in patients receiving antiretroviral therapy. [2]
Hyperlipidemia, increased bleeding in hemophilia patients, hyperglycemia, exacerbation of existing diabetes mellitus, and new onset diabetes mellitus have been reported in patients receiving PIs, including nelfinavir. [3]
Immune reconstitution syndrome has been reported in patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy, including emtricitabine. During the initial phase of combination antiretroviral treatment, a patient whose immune system responds may develop an inflammatory response to indolent or residual opportunistic infections, such as Mycobacterium avium infection, cytomegalovirus (CMV), Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), or tuberculosis, which may necessitate further evaluation and treatment. [4]
References
[1] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 24-5. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[2] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 17. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[3] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 16-7. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[4] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 19 Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
Drug and Food Interactions
Presence of food in the gastrointestinal tract substantially increases absorption of oral nelfinavir. Peak plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve of nelfinavir are two- to threefold and three- to fivefold higher, respectively, when the drug is administered with a meal than when administered under fasting conditions. [1]
Metabolism of nelfinavir is mediated in part by the CYP450 enzymes CYP3A and CYP2C19. Drugs that induce these isoenzymes may reduce nelfinavir plasma concentration. Conversely, concomitant administration of nelfinavir with drugs that inhibit CYP3A may increase nelfinavir plasma concentrations. In addition, nelfinavir may alter the pharmacokinetics of other drugs that are metabolized by this enzyme system, creating the possibility of serious adverse effects. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients concurrently receiving nelfinavir and other drugs that are extensively metabolized by or that induce or inhibit the CYP3A isoenzyme. [2]
Concomitant use of VIRACEPT with lovastatin or simvastatin is contraindicated. Caution should be exercised if HIV protease inhibitors, including VIRACEPT, are used concurrently with other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that are also metabolized by the CYP3A pathway (e.g., atorvastatin). Titrate atorvastatin dose carefully and use the lowest necessary dose; do not exceed a total atorvastatin dose of 40 mg/day during coadministration with VIRACEPT. The risk of myopathy including rhabdomyolysis may be increased when protease inhibitors, including VIRACEPT, are used in combination with these drugs. [3]
Nelfinavir should not be coadministered with astemizole, cisapride, salmeterol, alfuzosin, or terfenadine. [4] [5]
Other drugs that should not be coadministered with nelfinavir include amiodarone, ergot derivatives, midazolam, quinidine, pimozide, rifampin, and triazolam. Nelfinavir may affect the hepatic metabolism of these drugs, creating the potential for serious or life-threatening effects. [6]
Concomitant use of products containing St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) with nelfinavir or other PIs is not recommended. St. John's wort is expected to substantially decrease plasma drug levels and may lead to loss of virologic response and possible resistance to nelfinavir or other PIs.
Caution should be used when prescribing sildenafil in patients receiving PIs, including nelfinavir. Coadministration of a PI with sildenafil is expected to substantially increase sildenafil concentrations and, possibly, sildenafil-associated adverse effects, including hypotension, visual changes, and priapism. [7] People receiving nelfinavir should not take sildenafil, if it is being used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. [8]
Concomitant use of nelfinavir mesylate with certain other drugs may significantly increase or decrease plasma concentrations of nelfinavir or of the coadministered drug. Adjustment in dosage or regimen should be considered when nelfinavir is coadministered with any of the following drugs: delavirdine, indinavir, methadone, nevirapine, oral contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol, rifabutin, ritonavir, or saquinavir. [9]
Other drugs that may have a significant interaction when coadministered with nelfinavir include azithromycin, carbamazepine, cyclosporine, didanosine, fluticasone propionate, phenobarbital, phenytoin, trazodone, sirolimus, and tacrolimus. [10]
Patients receiving colchicine for the treatment of gout flares should take 0.6 mg (1 tablet) x 1 dose, followed by 0.3 mg (half tablet) 1 hour later. The dose is to be repeated no earlier than 3 days. For the prophylaxis of gout-flares, if the original colchicine regimen was 0.6 mg twice a day, the regimen should be adjusted to 0.3 mg once a day. If the original colchicine regimen was 0.6 mg once a day, the regimen should be adjusted to 0.3 mg once every other day. For the treatment of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), the maximum daily dose should be 0.6 mg (may be given as 0.3 mg twice a day). Nelfinavir and colchicine should not be coadministered in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. [11]
Bosentan, for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, can be started at 62.5 mg once daily or every other day based upon individual tolerability in patients who have already been on nelfinavir for at least 10 days. If patients are already on bosentan and are prescribed nelfinavir, they should discontinue use of bosentan at least 36 hours prior to the initiation of nelfinavir. After at least 10 days following the initiation of nelfinavir, patients may resume bosentan at 62.5 mg once daily or every other day based upon individual tolerability. [12]
Tadalafil, for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, can be started at 20 mg once daily and increased to 40 mg once daily based upon individual tolerability, in patients who are already on nelfinavir for at least 1 week. If patients are already on tadalafil and are prescribed nelfinavir, they should discontinue use of tadalafil at least 24 hours prior to starting nelfinavir. After at least 1 week following the initiation of nelfinavir, patients may resume tadalafil at 20 mg once daily, and may increase to 40 mg once daily based upon individual tolerability. [13]
Coadministration of warfarin and nelfinavir may affect concentrations of warfarin. It is recommended that the INR (international normalized ratio) be monitored carefully during treatment with nelfinavir, especially when commencing therapy. [14]
References
[1] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 4. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[2] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 15-6. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[3] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, February 2012. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020778s037,020779s058,021503s020lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/04/12.
[4] AHFS Drug Information 2007; pp. 653-4
[5] FDA. “New label information affecting all approved protease inhibitors for treatment of HIV” April 27, 2010. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm209920.htm. Accessed: 04/30/2010.
[6] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 19. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[7] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 16. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[8] FDA. “New label information affecting all approved protease inhibitors for treatment of HIV” April 27, 2010. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm209920.htm. Accessed: 04/30/2010.
[9] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 7-8. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[10] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, pp. 20-3. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[11] FDA. “New label information affecting all approved protease inhibitors for treatment of HIV” April 27, 2010. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm209920.htm. Accessed: 04/30/2010.
[12] FDA. “New label information affecting all approved protease inhibitors for treatment of HIV” April 27, 2010. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm209920.htm. Accessed: 04/30/2010.
[13] FDA. “New label information affecting all approved protease inhibitors for treatment of HIV” April 27, 2010. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm209920.htm. Accessed: 04/30/2010.
[14] FDA. “Viracept (nelfinavir) Label change reflects drug-drug interaction information with warfarin” February 24, 2011. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/HIVandAIDSActivities/ucm244619.htm. Accessed: 3/4/2011.
Contraindications
VIRACEPT is contraindicated in patients with clinically significant hypersensitivity to any of its components.
Coadministration of VIRACEPT is contraindicated with drugs that are highly dependent on CYP3A for clearance and for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events.
Drugs That Are Contraindicated With VIRACEPT
- Alpha 1adrenoreceptor antagonist: Alfuzosin.
- Antiarrhythmics: Amiodarone, Quinidine.
- Ergot Derivatives: Dihydroergotamine, Ergonovine, Ergotamine, Methylergonovine.
- HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors: Lovastatin, Simvastatin.
- Neuroleptic: Pimozide.
- PDE5 inhibitors: Sildenafil (REVATIO) [for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension].
- Sedative/Hypnotics: Midazolam, Triazolam. [1]
References
[1] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, February 2012. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020778s037,020779s058,021503s020lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/04/12.
Clinical Trials
Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Mesilato de nelfinavir.
Chemistry
CAS Name
[3S-[2(2S*,3S*),3alpha,4abeta, 8abeta]]-N-(1,1-dimethylethyl)decahydro-2- [2-hydroxy-3-[(3-hydroxy-2-methylbenzoyl) amino]-4-(phenylthio)butyl]-3- isoquinoline carboxamide mono- methanesulfonate (salt) [1]
CAS Number
159989-65-8 [2]
Molecular Formula
C32-H45-N3-O4-S.C-H4-O3-S
Elemental Composition
C59.70%, H7.44%, N6.33%, O16.87%, S9.66%
Molecular Weight
663.90 (Nelfinavir mesylate)
Physical Description
White to off-white amorphous powder. [3]
Solubility
Slightly soluble in water at pH of 4.0 or less; freely soluble in methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, and propylene glycol. [4]
References
[1] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 1. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/cder/foi/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[2] ChemIDplus Available at: http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/chemidlite.jsp. Accessed 03/14/08.
[3] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 1. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
[4] FDA Viracept Prescribing Information, 02/13/08, p. 1. Available at: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020778s029,020779s050,021503s011lbl.pdf. Accessed 03/14/08.
Further Reading
Viracept Prescribing Information from the FDA web site [PDF]. Accessed 01/03/06.. A more current version may be available on the manufacturer's web site.
Bruno R, Sacchi P, Maiocchi L, Zocchetti C, Filice G. Hepatotoxicity and nelfinavir: a meta-analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2005 May;3(5):482-8. Review.
Justesen US, Hansen IM, Andersen AB, Klitgaard NA, Black FT, Gerstoft J, Mathiesen LR, Pedersen C. The long-term pharmacokinetics and safety of adding low-dose ritonavir to a nelfinavir 1,2500 mg twice-daily regimen in HIV-infected patients. HIV Med. 2005 Sep;6(5):334-40.
King JR, Nachman S, Yogev R, Hodge J, Aldrovandi G, Hughes MD, Chen J, Wiznia A, Damle B, Acosta EP. Efficacy, Tolerability and Pharmacokinetics of Two Nelfinavir-Based Regimens in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Children and Adolescents: Pediatric AIDS Clinical Trials Group Protocol 403. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2005 Oct:24(10):880-885.
Mira JA, Macías J, Girón-González JA, Merino D, González-Serrano M, Jiménez-Mejías ME, Caballero-Granado FJ, Torre-Cisneros J, Terrón A, Becker MI, Gómez-Mateos J, Arizcorreta-Yarza A, Pineda JA; Grupo Andaluz Para el Estudio de las Enfermedades Infecciosas (GAEI). Incidence of and risk factors for severe hepatotoxicity of nelfinavir-containing regimens among HIV-infected patients with chronic hepatitis C. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2006 Jul;58(1):140-6. Epub 2006 May 23.
Kakehasi FM, Tupinambás U, Cleto S, Aleixo A, Lin E, Melo VH, Aguiar RA, Pinto JA. Persistence of genotypic resistance to nelfinavir among women exposed to prophylactic antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses. 2007 Dec;23(12):1515-20.
Perry CM, Frampton JE, McCormack PL, Siddiqui MA, Cvetkovic RS. Nelfinavir: A Review of its Use in the Management of HIV Infection. Drugs. 2005;65(15):2209-44.
Manufacturer Information
Nelfinavir
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985
Viracept
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985
All Content Last Reviewed: March 14, 2008
Last Updated: March 4, 2012