LOPINAVIR,RITONAVIR
Background and Date of Approval
Lopinavir and ritonavir is a combination antiretroviral medicine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.
Uses
Lopinavir, Ritonavir are used to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in adults and adolescents over 12 who weigh at least 40 kg. HIV infection occurs when a person's immune system is attacked and weakened by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This infection progressively weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections.
How is it administered?
It is an orally available prescription drug. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the drug based on the disease condition and other factors. Always take Lopinavir and Ritonavir as prescribed by your doctor. Take the tablet with or without food. Do not break, chew, crush, or break the tablet. Swallow the whole tablet with water.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Lopinavir, Ritonavir are diarrhoea and increased lipid levels in the blood. Serious side effects can also occur such as severe allergic reactions like lactic acidosis, changes in body fat, inflammation of the pancreas, liver problems, and high blood sugar.
Warnings
Suppose you have Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or other liver problems. In that case, you may have a greater risk of developing new or worsening liver illness during treatment with lopinavir and Ritonavir. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you have any signs and symptoms of liver problems, such as loss of appetite, dark-colored urine, yellow skin and whites of eyes(jaundice), and pale-colored stools. People with high levels of certain fat (triglycerides) have a greater chance of developing pancreatitis(a condition caused by inflammation of the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach). If you have a history of pancreatitis, you may have a greater chance of it returning during treatment with this drug.
Precautions
During the early stages of HIV-1 treatment, some patients may experience an inflammatory response to opportunistic infections. This condition is called immune reconstitution syndrome. It can occur after starting the drug or other antiretroviral therapies. Knowing this possibility and monitoring for any signs of worsening infections or inflammatory symptoms is necessary. Inform your healthcare provider if the symptoms concern you or persist longer than usual. It is advised to avoid using the drug if you are mainly allergic to it or its ingredients. Tell your doctor about all the medications you have been taking recently, including herbal and supplements, before taking this drug.
Word of Advice
To prevent HIV-1 transmission, avoid sharing needles or syringes. Individuals who use injectable drugs must use sterile needles and syringes and never share them with others. Personal items such as toothbrushes, razor blades, or anything with blood or body fluids on them should not be shared, as HIV-1 can be present in blood and certain body fluids, and sharing these items may transmit the virus. Lopinavir and Ritonavir are unsafe during breastfeeding because HIV infection can be transmitted to the infant through breast milk; alternative feeding methods should be considered to support the infant's nutrition. If you miss a dose of Lopinavir and Ritonavir for an entire day, take your usual dose the next day. Do not take a double dose.
References
AbbVie Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on March 2021] [ Accessed on 17th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.221.pdf AbbVie Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on December 2018] [ Accessed on 17th May 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/pepfar/090371PI.pdf KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antiviral drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 809 - 811. Goodman & Gilman's, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Antiretroviral agents and treatment of HIV infection, 12th edition, 2011, 1645-1654.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the actual mechanism of Lopinavir, Ritonavir?
Lopinavir and Ritonavir interfere with the protease enzyme necessary to produce new viruses in HIV-infected cells. By inhibiting this enzyme, they prevent the virus from multiplying and spreading in the body.
Are there any special precautions or warnings associated with Lopinavir or Ritonavir?
Yes, there are certain precautions and warnings to consider Lopinavir; Ritonavir may have potential interactions with other medications, can affect liver function, and may cause changes in heart rhythm. It's important to discuss any pre-existing medical illness or concerns with your doctor before starting this medication.
What should I say to the physician before taking Lopinavir or Ritonavir?
Before taking Lopinavir, and Ritonavir, you should inform your physician about any medical illness, including liver or kidney problems, diabetes, heart disease, pancreatitis, or any history of drug allergies. Also, inform about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking, as this tablet can interact with other drugs and cause adverse effects.
What is the most necessary information I should know about Lopinavir and Ritonavir?
Suppose you have Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or other liver problems. In that case, you may have a greater risk of developing new or worsening liver illness during treatment with Lopinavir or Ritonavir. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you have any signs and symptoms of liver problems.
How should I store lopinavir and Ritonavir?
Store lopinavir and ritonavir tablets at room temperature, between (20°C to 25°C). Please do not keep the tablets out of the container for longer than two weeks, especially in areas with a lot of humidity. Keep the container closed tightly.
What strength is Lopinavir, Ritonavir?
It is available in tablet form, and each tablet contains 200 milligrams of lopinavir and 50 milligrams of Ritonavir. The combination of lopinavir and Ritonavir in Lopimune is formulated to provide an effective antiviral treatment for certain conditions, including HIV.