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EMLETRA Tablet 120’s
Lopinavir + Ritonavir Tablets (200mg/50mg)
Lopinavir is a potent antiviral agent and a protease inhibitor used in fixed-dose combinations with low-dose Ritonavir for the management of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients. It works by inhibiting HIV protease, thereby blocking essential steps in viral replication and preventing the release of new virus particles.
Ritonavir acts as a pharmacokinetic booster, slowing the breakdown of Lopinavir in the liver and maintaining therapeutic drug levels in the bloodstream for effective viral suppression.
Key Benefits and Use
HIV Replication Suppression: Effectively reduces viral load, helping keep HIV levels low and manageable.
Immune Support: Helps improve CD4 count, strengthening the immune system against opportunistic infections.
Prevention of Disease Progression: Reduces the risk of progression from HIV to AIDS and related complications.
How This Medicine Works: This antiretroviral therapy must be taken strictly under the supervision of an infectious disease specialist.
Stability: Take the prescribed dose once or twice daily as directed. Missing doses may lead to drug resistance.
Administration: Swallow tablets whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break. Can be taken with or without food.
Do Not Stop Therapy: Even if test results improve, do not stop or modify treatment without medical advice.
Common and Management Adverse Reactions
During initial therapy, mild to moderate side effects may occur as the body adjusts:
Diarrhea or loose stools
Nausea, vomiting, or mild abdominal pain
Altered taste or metallic taste
Headache or unusual fatigue
Mild tingling or numbness in hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy)
⚠️ Important Health Alert: This combination may cause metabolic changes including increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and may lead to lipodystrophy (fat redistribution). Regular fasting lipid profile monitoring is recommended.
Safety Advice and Medical Precautions
Alcohol: Do not consume. Alcohol increases risk of liver damage, pancreatitis, and dizziness.
Pregnancy: Consult your doctor. May be used only if clearly necessary under specialist supervision.
Breastfeeding: Not advised. HIV-positive mothers are generally advised to avoid breastfeeding to prevent viral transmission.
Liver Health: Use with caution. Lopinavir + Ritonavir is metabolized in the liver. Inform your doctor if you have a history of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or liver disease.
Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular monitoring is required as the drug may increase blood glucose levels or worsen diabetes.
FAQs
Q. Is Lopinavir a complete cure for HIV infection?
No. Lopinavir + Ritonavir does not cure HIV. It helps control viral replication, reduces viral load, and supports long-term health while lowering transmission risk.
Q. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember. If the next dose is within 6 hours, skip the missed dose. Do not double doses.
Q. Can I take antacids with Lopinavir?
Avoid taking antacids at the same time. Maintain a gap of at least 1 hour before or after the dose to ensure proper absorption.
Why Lopinavir Is Always Combined with Ritonavir
Lopinavir is rapidly metabolized in the liver. Ritonavir inhibits its breakdown, acting as a boosting agent that increases and prolongs Lopinavir levels in the body.
Can Lopinavir interact with erectile dysfunction drugs?
Yes. It can increase levels of drugs like sildenafil and tadalafil, potentially causing severe hypotension, dizziness, or prolonged erections. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.