Video - Protease inhibitors

Protease inhibitors (PIs) are a class of antiviral drugs that are widely used to manage HIV/AIDS. Protease inhibitors prevent viral replication by selectively binding the enzyme HIV-1 protease, and prevent the formation of new viruses and further infection of the host's cells. Common medications in this class include atazanavir, darunavir, indinavir, lopinavir, tipranavir, and ritonavir. Common side effects of protease inhibitors include gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting; and metabolic disorders such as hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and hyperlipidemia.