HIV treatments information
lopinavir + ritonavir
HIV seems to have a hard time developing resistanceHIV which has mutated and is less susceptible to the effects of one or more anti-HIV drugs is said to be resistant. to Kaletra, it has even been shown to work well as a monotherapy. Great viral loadA measurement of the quantity of HIV RNA in the blood. Viral load blood test results are expressed as the number of copies (of HIV) per milliliter of blood plasma. results for people on their first HIV regimen. Good results also for those heavily treatment-experienced, even those with protease inhibitor resistance.
Once daily dosing can increase side effects, especially diarrhoea, and is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone under 18. People with liverA large organ, located in the upper right abdomen, which assists in digestion by metabolising carbohydrates, fats and proteins, stores vitamins and minerals, produces amino acids, bile and cholesterol, and removes toxins from the blood. damage should avoid Kaletra altogether.
About this treatment
| Generic name: | lopinavir + ritonavir (LPV/r) |
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| Pronunciation: | lo-PIN-aveer |
| Brand name: | Kaletra |
| Also known as: | ABT-378 Aluvia |
| Drug class: | protease inhibitor |
| Availability in Australia: |
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| Presentation: | 200mg + 50mg ritonavir tablet; Oral solution |
| What the treatment guidelines say: | Kaletra once or twice daily is one of four protease inhibitors currently recommended for first-time therapy. |
| Links: |
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Taking it
Like all anti-HIV drugs, lopinavir + ritonavir must be taken in combination with other drugs to be completely effective. Commonly, lopinavir + ritonavir is combined with two nucleoside (NRTI) drugs, although other combinations are sometimes used. Your doctor will advise you on the right combination of drugs to suit your circumstances.
Dosage
Take two 200mg/50mg tablets twice a day
Regardless of what you read on this website or elsewhere, you should always take your medications according to your doctor's instructions. If you're unsure, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
With or without food?
Lopinavir + ritonavir may be taken with or without food.
Side effects
All drugs can produce side effects in some people. These may be mild, moderate or severe, so you should be aware of potential side effects before starting any drug, and speak to your doctor if you experience side effects that concern you.
- Common side effects may include nausea (upset stomach, feeling sick to the stomach), diarrhoea, headache, abdominal pain, feeling weak or tired.
- Less common side effects may include lipodystrophy, lactic acidosis, rasied sugar or fat levels, joint pain or stiffness.
- Rare side effects may include hyperlipidaemia, abnormal liver function.
It's unlikely you will experience all of these side effects, and you may not experience any side effects at all. Before starting any new drug, ask your doctor about side effects you might experience and discuss strategies for dealing with side effects if they do occur. If you experience any significant side effect you should continue taking your medicine and see your doctor as soon as possible.
Interactions with other drugs
Follow the link to PBS Consumer Medicine Information for a comprehensive list of drugs you should avoid while taking Kaletra.| Attachment | Size |
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| abckalet11208.pdf | 42.83 KB |