Used primarily in the treatment of HIV-1 infection, this compound acts as a protease inhibitor, preventing the virus from maturing and producing infectious particles. It is typically administered in combination with other antiretroviral drugs as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). This approach helps reduce viral load, maintain immune function, and slow disease progression. The compound is especially useful in treatment-experienced patients and has been studied for potential antitumor effects due to its ability to interfere with cellular signaling pathways involved in cancer growth.