Nelfinavir
Nelfinavir is an antiretroviral medication belonging to the protease inhibitor class used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. It works by inhibiting the HIV-1 protease enzyme, which is essential for the virus to replicate and produce infectious viral particles. Typically used in combination with other antiretroviral agents, it helps reduce viral load and improve immune function in patients with HIV.
Nelfinavir is an HIV-1 protease inhibitor used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy for treating HIV infection.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J05AE04
- RxNorm
- 134527
- Generic
- Nelfinavir
- Class
- atc-j05
- Brands
- Viracept
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- powder, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
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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. It is used to reduce viral load and increase CD4+ T-cell counts in patients with HIV/AIDS.
Nelfinavir is a non-peptidic protease inhibitor that selectively inhibits HIV-1 protease. By blocking this enzyme, it prevents the cleavage of viral polyprotein precursors, resulting in the production of immature, non-infectious viral particles.
Nelfinavir should always be used as part of a combination regimen with other antiretrovirals, not as monotherapy. It requires dose adjustment in patients with hepatic impairment. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and rash. It interacts with multiple medications through CYP450 enzyme systems.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy