ABSTRACT
Saquinavir, a synthetic peptidomimetic analog that inhibits the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease, was developed using computer-led rational design technology and was the first commercially available antiretroviral protease inhibitor. It is a specific inhibitor of HIV-1, HIV-2, and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) proteases. Formerly known as Ro31-8959, saquinavir, whose generic name is saquinavir mesylate, was developed by Roche and is marketed under the trade name Invirase. It is indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in combination with ritonavir and other antiretroviral drugs. Cobicistat cannot be substituted for ritonavir because dosing recommendations have not yet been established.
