Lopinavir and Ritonavir

Lopinavir and ritonavir is a combination medication that is used for treating HIV and AIDS. Both components of the drug are protease inhibitors, which work by blocking a process that the HIV virus needs in order to multiply. Lopinavir and ritonavir is available by prescription and comes in both tablet and oral solution form. Potential side effects include weakness, nausea, and diarrhea.

Lopinavir and Ritonavir for HIV/AIDS

What Is Lopinavir and Ritonavir?

Lopinavir and ritonavir (Kaletra^®) is a prescription medicine used as a treatment for HIV and AIDS. It contains two separate medications. Ritonavir is used to increase the level of lopinavir in the blood, helping to make it more effective. Lopinavir and ritonavir is approved to be used along with other HIV medications.

(Click What Is Lopinavir and Ritonavir Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Lopinavir and Ritonavir Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with lopinavir and ritonavir. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.

Common side effects of lopinavir and ritonavir include but are not limited to:

Diarrhea
Nausea
Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
Weakness
Headaches.

(Click Side Effects of Lopinavir and Ritonavir to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)

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