EMLETRA TABLET

🛡️🧬💊 Ritonavir 50mg + Lopinavir 200mg Tablet: A Powerful Antiviral Combo Against HIV

Ritonavir 50mg + Lopinavir 200mg is a fixed-dose combination antiretroviral medication used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Belonging to the class of protease inhibitors, this drug works by inhibiting the HIV protease enzyme, thereby preventing the virus from replicating and spreading throughout the body. Commonly known under the brand name Kaletra, this combination plays a key role in Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) and is prescribed alongside other antiretroviral agents to improve immune function and reduce viral load.

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🔬 Mechanism of Action

Both Lopinavir and Ritonavir are HIV-1 protease inhibitors:

• Lopinavir is the primary active component, designed to inhibit the protease enzyme, which is essential for the maturation of infectious viral particles. By blocking this enzyme, Lopinavir prevents HIV from producing mature, infectious viral particles.

• Ritonavir, although also a protease inhibitor, is used here at a low dose as a pharmacokinetic enhancer. It inhibits the enzyme CYP3A4, which metabolizes Lopinavir. This allows higher concentrations of Lopinavir in the bloodstream, thereby enhancing its effectiveness.

Together, this duo increases the potency and half-life of the medication, allowing for effective viral suppression with lower frequency of dosing.

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📌 Indications and Uses

This combination is approved for:

• Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and children

• Used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART)

• May be used in post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) regimens in select cases

• Not a cure for HIV, but helps control infection and prevent progression to AIDS

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💊 Dosage and Administration

• Standard adult dose: Lopinavir 400mg + Ritonavir 100mg, twice daily

• Pediatric dosages are adjusted by weight

• Should be taken with food to enhance absorption

• Swallow tablets whole; do not crush or chew

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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Not for monotherapy – always used with other antiretrovirals

• Use caution in patients with:

  • Liver disease or hepatitis

  • Pancreatitis history

  • Diabetes or lipid abnormalities

• Can cause QT and PR interval prolongation; ECG monitoring may be needed

• Pregnancy Category C – may be used if benefits outweigh risks

• Not effective against hepatitis B or C

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🤒 Side Effects

Common:

• Diarrhea

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

• Increased cholesterol or triglycerides

Serious:

• Liver toxicity

• Pancreatitis

• Heart rhythm disorders

• Hyperglycemia and insulin resistance

Report any signs of jaundice, severe abdominal pain, or irregular heartbeat immediately.

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🔄 Drug Interactions

This combination is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, resulting in multiple drug interactions:

• Avoid with simvastatin, lovastatin, rifampin, St. John’s Wort

• Dose adjustments needed for:

  • Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin)

  • Oral contraceptives

  • Antifungals and antibiotics

Consult a physician before starting any new medications.

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🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at 15–30°C, away from moisture

• Do not freeze the liquid formulation

• Keep out of reach of children

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📝 Conclusion

Ritonavir 50mg + Lopinavir 200mg is a potent, well-established protease inhibitor combo that plays a critical role in the management of HIV-1 infection. It offers high efficacy, durable viral suppression, and is a cornerstone in modern antiretroviral regimens. Regular monitoring, adherence, and awareness of interactions are key to achieving long-term success with this therapy.

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Always follow your doctor’s advice, dosage instructions, and never self-medicate.