garlic supplements can decrease levels of the HIV protease inhibitor saquinavir (Fortovase, Invirase)

There's now evidence that garlic supplements can decrease levels of the HIV protease inhibitor saquinavir (Fortovase, Invirase).

This is important. A lot of HIV patients are trying garlic because of its reported antiviral and immunostimulant effects.

It's also being used to treat the increases in cholesterol and triglycerides that are sometimes seen with HIV therapy.

Decreased HIV drug levels can cause therapeutic failure...and increase viral resistance.

Garlic might also affect other HIV meds metabolized through similar pathways...Crixivan, Norvir, Rescriptor, Viramune, etc.

Be on the lookout for HIV patients taking garlic supplements. Tell them there's no proof garlic is helpful for HIV. Warn them that garlic might make their HIV meds ineffective.

• Other: Garlic and Protease Inhibitors