Lexiva (fosamprenavir) is a medication used to treat the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). MedlinePlus indicates that Lexiva is a protease inhibitor that stops the progression of the virus throughout the body. Typically, you will take 1,400mg of Lexiva twice a day or as your doctor prescribes.
Common Side Effects
In a placebo-controlled study of 166 patients receiving 1,400mg of Lexiva twice a day, the National Library of Medicine found that 5 percent developed diarrhea, 7 percent had nausea, 2 percent developed vomiting and 1 percent experienced stomach pain. Additionally, 8 percent developed a skin rash while 2 percent experienced fatigue and a headache. Drugs.com indicates that Lexiva can also cause paresthesias (numbness or tingling) around the mouth, mood changes and changes in the distribution of body fat.
Serious Side Effects
MedlinePlus says that Lexiva can cause hyperglycemia, a condition in which blood glucose levels are elevated. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include frequent urination, extreme thirst or hunger, blurry vision and weakness. Seek immediate help as this can lead to a serious and potentially fatal condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Symptoms of this condition include fruity-smelling breath, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness and shortness of breath. Lexiva's other serious side effects include trouble breathing, fever, chills and dysphagia (trouble swallowing). Go to the emergency room as soon as you present with any of these symptoms.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Lexiva if you are allergic to fosamprenavir. Manifestations of a hypersensitive (allergic) reaction include difficulty breathing, hives, and facial, tongue or lip swelling.
Do not take Lexiva with cisapride, midozalam, triazolam or pimozide, says Drugs.com. These combinations can lead to the previously discussed side effects.
Do not take Lexiva if you have diabetes, liver or kidney disease, any bleeding disorders or high cholesterol. Lexiva may worsen these conditions.
Avoid breastfeeding, as the AIDS virus can contaminate your milk and pass to your baby. It is uncertain whether Lexiva can harm your unborn child, but tell your physician if you are pregnant.
Drugs.com says that you should not take Lexiva with birth control pills and ritonavir. The combination can lead to liver problems.
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