LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR
About LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR belongs to a class of drugs called antiretrovirals used in the treatment of HIV infection. LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR helps in decreasing the chance of developing AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR may be used in combination with other antiviral drugs. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system and destroys the white blood cells that help in fighting infection, making the individual susceptible to other infections or illnesses.
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR is a combination of two antiretroviral drugs, namely: Lopinavir and Ritonavir. Lopinavir works by inhibiting the working of a protease enzyme that is essential for the reproduction of HIV. Thereby, it prevents the production of the new virus. Ritonavir slows the breakdown of Lopinavir by the liver and increases the levels of Lopinavir in the blood and making it effective against the virus. Together, they help to control HIV infection.
Take LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR as prescribed by your doctor. You are advised to take LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR for as long as your doctor has prescribed it for you based on your medical condition. In some cases, you may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, indigestion, decreased appetite, headache, or dizziness. Most of these side effects of LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
If you are allergic to LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR or any other medicines, please tell your doctor. LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR is not recommended for children below 2 years of age as the safety and effectiveness were not established. If you are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or breastfeeding, please consult a doctor before taking LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR. You are recommended to avoid the consumption of alcohol with LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR as it may increase the risk of liver damage. Drive only if you are alert as LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR may cause dizziness.
Uses of LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR
Medicinal Benefits
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR contains Lopinavir and Ritonavir used in the treatment of HIV infection. LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR may be used in combination with other antiviral drugs. Lopinavir inhibits the working of the protease enzyme that is essential for the reproduction of HIV. Thereby, it prevents the production of the new virus. Ritonavir slows the breakdown of Lopinavir by the liver and increases the levels of Lopinavir in the blood and making it effective against the virus. Together, they help to control HIV infection by slowing the spread of infection in the body. Taking LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR along with practicing safe sex and lifestyle changes may reduce the risk of getting or transmitting HIV to others.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Indigestion
- Decreased appetite
- Headache
- Dizziness
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
HIV infection: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system and destroys the white blood cells that help in fighting infection, making the individual susceptible to other infections or illnesses. People with HIV experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, tiredness, and sore throat. These symptoms usually last for days to several weeks. HIV spreads through body fluids such as semen, vaginal fluid, and blood. If left untreated, this condition can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). It is a life-long condition, and there is no definite cure for it. However, it can be controlled by treating with antiretroviral drugs.
FAQs
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR contains Lopinavir and Ritonavir. Lopinavir works by inhibiting the working of a protease enzyme that is essential for the reproduction of the HIV virus. Thereby, it prevents the production of the new virus. Ritonavir slows the breakdown of Lopinavir by the liver and increases the levels of Lopinavir in blood and makes it effective against the virus. Together, they help to control HIV infection.
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR should be used with caution in diabetic patients as it may increase blood sugar levels. However, if you experience increased thirst or urination, weight loss or fruity breath smell while taking LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR, please consult a doctor immediately as these might be signs of high blood sugar levels.
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR may cause bone problems such as osteonecrosis (death of bone tissue due to loss of blood supply to the bone) especially in HIV patients taking combination antiretroviral therapy. However, if you experience joint pains, stiffness (especially of shoulder, knee or hip) or difficulty in movement, please consult a doctor immediately.
HIV infection may still be transmitted to other persons while using LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR. LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR reduces the risk of transmission but still, HIV infection is contagious. Therefore, discuss with a doctor regarding precautions to be taken to avoid transmission of HIV while taking LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR.
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR is not recommended for patients with severe liver problems including chronic hepatitis B or C infection as it may increase the risk of severe liver side effects. Therefore, inform your doctor if you have a history of any liver problems before taking LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR.
LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR does not cure HIV infection. LOPINAVIR+RITONAVIR reduces the amount of HIV virus in the body and improves the functioning of the immune system.
