Side Effects of Lopinavir and Ritonavir

Diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are some of the most commonly reported side effects of lopinavir and ritonavir. In most cases, side effects are minor and either don't require medical attention or can be easily treated. However, certain lopinavir and ritonavir side effects should be reported to a healthcare provider right away, including signs of an allergic reaction, pancreatitis, and depression.

 

Side Effects of Lopinavir and Ritonavir: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with lopinavir and ritonavir (Kaletra®); 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.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with lopinavir and ritonavir. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of lopinavir and ritonavir side effects with you.)
 

Side Effects of Lopinavir and Ritonavir to Report

There are a number of side effects with lopinavir and ritonavir that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
 
 
    • Fatigue or a general ill feeling (malaise)
    • Loss of appetite
    • Nausea
    • Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
    • Tenderness near the liver (the upper-right abdomen)
    • Pale stools
 
  • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
  • Changes in the distribution of fat on your body (such as a "buffalo hump")
  • Symptoms of inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), such as:
 
    • A tender or swollen abdomen
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Fever
    • A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
    • Rapid breathing
 
 
    • A rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling of the mouth or throat
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing.
 
(Side Effects of Lopinavir and Ritonavir Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;