Indinavir
Indinavir is an antiretroviral medication classified as an HIV protease inhibitor, used in combination with other antiretrovirals to treat HIV-1 infection. It was among the earlier protease inhibitors developed for HIV management, though it has largely been replaced by newer agents with improved tolerability profiles.
Indinavir is an HIV protease inhibitor used as part of combination therapy to treat HIV infection.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J05AE02
- RxNorm
- 114289
- Generic
- Indinavir
- Class
- atc-j05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents. Used in both treatment-naive and treatment-experienced patients when appropriate based on resistance testing and clinical judgment.
Indinavir inhibits the HIV protease enzyme, which is essential for viral replication. By blocking this enzyme, the medication prevents the cleavage of viral polyproteins, resulting in the production of immature, non-infectious viral particles.
Must be taken on an empty stomach with water, typically every 8 hours. Commonly associated with kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) and elevated bilirubin levels. Requires adequate hydration. Largely superseded by newer antiretroviral agents due to its side effect profile and inconvenient dosing schedule. Should always be used as part of combination therapy to prevent resistance development.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy