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Lopinavir / Ritonavir

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Antiretroviral Agent Kaletra® Adult, Children

Lopinavir / Ritonavir - What is it for

Kaletra contains Lopinavir, an antiretroviral agent that makes viruses less infectious. It is used to decrease the amount of viruses (viral load) to as low as possible, for as long as possible. It also contains Ritonavir that enhances action of Lopinavir.

Lopinavir / Ritonavir - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Lopinavir / Ritonavir cause?

Nausea and vomiting are common, and may be prevented by eating small frequent meals or sucking on candy. Headaches and pain can be alleviated with mild painkillers e.g. paracetamol. Other common side effects are diarrhoea, rash, dizziness, feeling tired/weakness and difficulty in sleeping.

Inform your doctor if the side effects become severe and bothersome.

Before taking Lopinavir / Ritonavir , what precautions must I follow?

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Lopinavir / Ritonavir ?

Lopinavir / Ritonavir - Dosage and How to Use

How should Lopinavir / Ritonavir be used?

Kaletra is usually taken twice daily. It is usually given in combination with other antiretroviral agents, to achieve significant decrease in viral multiplication.

Kaletra oral solution should be taken with food. High fat meal increases absorption.

Kaletra tablets can be taken with or without food

If you or your child is taking Kaletra together with Didanosine, administer them at least two hours apart from each other.

Do not cut or crush the tablets as this might reduce the efficacy of the medicine.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Missing doses makes Kaletra less effective and may also make the virus resistant to Kaletra and other possible antiretroviral agents.

If you forgot to administer the medication within 4 hours, take the dose as soon as you remember and then continue to take it as per normal. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not double or increase the dose.

If you or your child vomits within 15 minutes of administration, take another dose if possible.

What should I do if I overdose?

Lopinavir / Ritonavir - Handling

How should I handle Lopinavir / Ritonavir safely?

Lopinavir / Ritonavir - Storage

How should I store Lopinavir / Ritonavir ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;# Tablets should be stored in its original container at room temperature, away from heat and light. Syrup preparation should be refrigerated (2˚C - 8˚C). If stored at room temperature (<25˚C), the syrup should be used within 2 months.

How should I dispose of Lopinavir / Ritonavir safely?

Lopinavir / Ritonavir - Additional Information

Some medication may reduce its efficacy, or increase its toxicity. Do not take any other medications or herbal products without first consulting your doctor.

  • Updated on 9/27/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Pharmacy Department KK Women's and Children's Hospital
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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