Atazanavir is used along with other medications to treat human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Atazanavir is in a class
of medications called protease inhibitors. It works by
decreasing the amount of HIV in the blood. Although atazanavir
does not cure HIV, it may decrease your chance of developing
acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related
illnesses such as serious infections or cancer. Taking these
medications along with practicing safer sex and making other
life-style changes may decrease the risk of transmitting the HIV
virus to other people. Atazanavir comes as a capsule to take by
mouth. It is usually taken once a day with a meal or snack. Take
atazanavir at around the same time every day. Follow the
directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your
doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take atazanavir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of
it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. You
will take other medications for HI