The US Food and Drug Administration has said in a news release that preliminary studies show that HIV drugs saquinavir (marketed as Invirase) and ritonavir (Norvir) may lead to heart rhythm abnormalities when used in combination.
When used together it has been suggested that the drugs can cause an effect on the heart that could lead to lightheadedness and fainting or life-threatening ventricular fibrillation in some patients. The FDA state that these side effects may be increased in people with a history of QT interval prolongation or using medication known to cause QT interval prolongation.
Roche, makers of saquinavir, and Abbott, maker of ritonavir, are both co-operating fully with the FDA's ongoing review. Roche has submitted updated prescribing information to the FDA for its consideration. Abbott included information about the cardiac risk associated with ritonavir on its labelling in 2008.
Anyone currently using saquinavir, particularly in combination with ritonavir, should talk to their doctor about any concerns this warning raises. Treatment regimes must never be changed or abandoned without consultation with a clinician.
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