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Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship, Activity Prediction, and Molecular Dynamics of Non-nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors
Published on: May 9, 2025
Saquinavir, the pioneer antiretroviral protease inhibitor
1University of Ottawa, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Chronic Disease Program, Department of Medicine, 501 Smyth Road, mailbox 223, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada. claporte@ohri.ca
Background:
The treatment of HIV infection underwent a major change in 1995 when saquinavir was the first protease inhibitor introduced into the market. This drug made the use of combination therapy in the treatment of HIV possible and increased the success rate of treatment.
Objective:
This article will review recent literature on saquinavir to define its current role in HIV treatment, among the newer antiretroviral drugs.
Methods:
Scientific literature and conference presentations were evaluated for relevant information pertaining to saquinavir.
Results/Conclusions:
Although underused, saquinavir has good efficacy and tolerability when compared to other protease inhibitors. The film-coated tablet formulation improved pill burden. Saquinavir still has potential in the treatment of adults, children and pregnant women.
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