Indinavir is an antiviral medication, and works by preventing HIV from multiplying in your body. It is in a class of drugs called protease inhibitors which also includes ritonavir (Norvir®), nelfinavir (Viracept®) and saquinavir (Invirase®, Fortovase®).

During infection with HIV, the HIV virus multiplies within the body's cells. Viruses are released from the cells and spread throughout the body where they infect other cells. In this manner, HIV infection is perpetuated among new cells that the body produces continually.

During the production of the viruses, new proteins are made. Some of the proteins are structural proteins, that, is, proteins that form the body of the virus. Other proteins are enzymes which manufacture DNA and other components for the new viruses. Protease is the enzyme that forms the new structural proteins and enzymes. Indinavir blocks the activity of protease and results in the formation of defective viruses that are unable to infect the body's cells. As a result, the number of viruses in the body (the viral load) decreases.

Is is important to know that indinavir is not an actual cure for HIV or AIDS.

 

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