Side Effects of Nelfinavir

Diarrhea, gas, nausea, and rashes appear to be the most common side effects of nelfinavir. Some of the less common side effects (occurring in less than 2 percent of people taking the drug) include dehydration, headache, and high cholesterol. There are also certain nelfinavir side effects that are potentially serious and require immediate medical attention, such as suicidal thoughts, high blood sugar, and seizures.

Nelfinavir Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with nelfinavir mesylate (Viracept®); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with nelfinavir. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of nelfinavir side effects with you.)
 

Side Effects of Nelfinavir to Report

There are a number of side effects with nelfinavir that you should report to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
 
  • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
  • Any unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Changes in the distribution of fat on your body (such as a "buffalo hump")
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Kidney stones
  • Seizures
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, hives, itching, swelling of the mouth or throat, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
     

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(Side Effects of Nelfinavir Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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