HIV protease inhibitors called Ritonavir pills and oral solution are prescribed in conjunction with other antiretroviral medications to treat HIV-1 infection.
For the treatment of juvenile HIV-1 infected patients, Ritonavir Oral powder is recommended in addition to other antiretroviral medications.
For Ritonavir, a dose adjustment is required when used with other protease inhibitors (2).
Among patients receiving Ritonavir alone or in combination with other antiretroviral medications, gastrointestinal side effects (such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upper and lower abdominal pain), neurological side effects (such as paresthesia and oral paresthesia), rash, and fatigue/asthenia were the most commonly reported adverse drug reactions.
Drug Interactions: Ritonavir can interact with other medications, potentially causing significant or known drug interactions. Consult the full prescribing information for possible interactions.
Toxicity in Preterm Neonates: Avoid using Ritonavir oral solution in preterm neonates immediately after birth due to potential toxicities. Safe dosing has not been established for this patient group.
Hepatotoxicity: Fatalities have occurred due to liver-related issues. Monitor liver function before and during treatment, especially in patients with underlying liver diseases or elevated liver enzymes.
Pancreatitis: Ritonavir use has led to fatal cases of pancreatitis. Consider suspending therapy if clinically appropriate.
Allergic Reactions/Hypersensitivity: Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and skin conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have been reported. Discontinue treatment if severe reactions occur.
Cardiac Effects: Ritonavir can prolong the PR interval and cause heart block in some patients. Use with caution in individuals with preexisting heart conditions or when combined with drugs affecting heart rhythm.
Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Ritonavir can elevate total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Monitor these before and during therapy.
Diabetes and Hyperglycemia: Patients may experience new-onset or worsening diabetes and hyperglycemia.
Immune Reconstitution Syndrome: Ritonavir use may result in immune reconstitution syndrome, where the recovering immune system responds to previously hidden infections.
Redistribution of Body Fat: Ritonavir may lead to changes in body fat distribution or accumulation.
Hemophilia: Ritonavir can increase the risk of spontaneous bleeding in individuals with hemophilia, potentially requiring additional factor VIII.
Q: What is Ritonavir?
A: Ritonavir is an antiretroviral medication used primarily in the treatment of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infections. It falls into the class of drugs known as protease inhibitors and is often used in combination therapy to manage HIV.
Q: How does Ritonavir work?
A: Ritonavir works by inhibiting an enzyme called HIV protease. By doing so, it prevents the virus from replicating and spreading within the body, thereby reducing the viral load and slowing down the progression of HIV infection.
Q: Why is Ritonavir used as a booster in HIV treatment?
A: Ritonavir has a unique property where, in smaller doses than those used for treating HIV on its own, it can enhance the effectiveness of other protease inhibitors. It achieves this by inhibiting enzymes that metabolize these drugs, thus increasing their concentration in the bloodstream.
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