Question
Which of the following drugs, when administered, would enhance the bioavailability of saquinavir?
| A. |
Ritonavir
|
| B. |
Vitamin C
|
| C. |
Cimetidine
|
| D. |
Ganciclovir
|
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » A
Explanation
|
|
Saquinavir is an antiretroviral protease inhibitor used in the treatment of HIV. Ritonavir, another protease inhibitor, is known to potently inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymes, which are responsible for the metabolism of many drugs, including saquinavir.
When co-administered with ritonavir, the metabolism of saquinavir is slowed, leading to a higher plasma concentration and enhanced bioavailability of saquinavir. This combination is commonly used to “boost” saquinavir levels, allowing for more effective viral suppression at lower doses of saquinavir.
Ritonavir acts as a booster for other protease inhibitors in HIV therapy.
