What is Lexiva (Fosamprenavir) prescribed for?

This medication is normally used with other HIV medications to aid in the control of HIV infections. Overall Lexiva helps decrease the amount of HIV within your body, so your immune system can work better. This also lowers the chance of getting HIV complications, such as new infections and cancer. It also helps to improve your quality of life.

This drug may be given alongside with a medication known as ritonavir, and it helps increase the levels of Lexiva, in giving this medication a boost it helps make this medication work better overall. This medication is not a cure for HIV. There are various methods to decrease your risk of spreading HIV. Speak with your doctor for any details

This medication comes in a singular dose of 700mg. Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, either with or without food.  It is usually taken once or twice a day, or as directed by your doctor.

Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. As well as any other medications you may be currently taking. If you are directed to take ritonavir with this medication, take them both at the same time.

For the best result, take this medication at evenly spaced times throughout the day. Take this medication exactly as prescribed to you by your doctor. Do not skip doses. And do not take more or less of the medication then what has been prescribed to you, and do not stop taking this medication, even for a short time frame. Do so may cause the amount of the virus to increase, and may make the infection more difficult to treat.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Fosamprenavir; or to amprenavir; or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform them you have had the following; liver problems (including hepatitis B or C infections), kidney problems (including kidney stones), heart problems (such as coronary artery disease, heart attack), diabetes, a certain bleeding problem (hemophilia).

Fosamprenavir may increase the level of cholesterol and fats (triglycerides) in your blood. HIV infection can also cause this effect. This could increase your risk for heart problems such as a heart attack. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor and ways to lower your risk of heart disease. Tell your doctor if you have heart problems, if you smoke, or if you have other conditions that increase your risk of heart disease such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol/triglyceride levels.

Some side effects may occur while taking this mediation, they are as follows; Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and headache may occur. However, if these symptoms do persist or worsen, it is best to consult with your doctor.

If you are experiencing any of these rare but very serious side effects, seek medical help right away. The side effects are as follows; including: unexplained weight loss, severe tiredness, muscle aches/weakness that doesn't go away, headaches that are severe or don't go away, joint pain, numbness/tingling of the hands/feet/arms/legs, vision changes, signs of infection (such as fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, trouble breathing, cough, non-healing skin sores), signs of an overactive thyroid (such as irritability, nervousness, heat intolerance, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, bulging eyes, unusual growth in the neck/thyroid known as a goiter), signs of a certain nerve problem known as Guillain-Barre syndrome (such as trouble breathing/swallowing/moving your eyes, drooping face, paralysis, trouble speaking), signs of liver disease (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine).

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: increased thirst/urination, signs of a kidney stone (such as pain in side/back/abdomen, painful urination, blood in the urine).

Changes in body fat may occur while you are taking this medication (such as increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms and legs). The cause and long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor, as well as the possible use of exercise to reduce this side effect.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: signs of a heart attack (such as chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating).

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.