Lopinavir and Ritonavir - Medical Health Care Library Wiki


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Lopinavir And Ritonavir

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IMPORTANT WARNING:

Posted 08/14/2007 Abbott Laboratories disseminated a Dear Healthcare Provider Letter throughout the world to physicians and pharmacists that prescribe/distribute lopinavir and ritonavir (Kaletra Oral Solution). The letter informed healthcare professionals of an accidental overdose that occurred with a pediatric patient taking lopinavir and ritonavir oral solution. The infant received a significantly large dose of lopinavir and ritonavir oral solution and subsequently died. Healthcare professionals should pay special attention to accurate calculation of the dose of lopinavir and ritonavir oral solution, transcription of the medication order, dispensing information and dosing instructions to minimize the risk for medication errors. For more information visit the FDA website at: http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2007/safety07.htm#kaletra, http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2007/Kaletra_DHCP.pdf and http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2007/Mar_PI/Kaletra_PI_200703.pdf.

Why is this medication prescribed?

The combination of lopinavir and ritonavir is used with other antiviral medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lopinavir is in a class of medications called protease (pro' tee ace) inhibitors. It works by slowing the spread of HIV in the body. In this combination, ritonavir is used to increase the amount of lopinavir in the body so it can work better. Lopinavir and ritonavir is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Lopinavir and ritonavir does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people.

How should this medicine be used?

Pending revision, the material in this section should be considered in light of more recently available information in the MedWatch notification at the beginning of this monograph.

The combination of lopinavir and ritonavir comes as a capsule and a solution (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken twice a day with food. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take lopinavir and ritonavir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Continue to take lopinavir and ritonavir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking lopinavir and ritonavir without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. If you store lopinavir and ritonavir capsules or solution in the refrigerator, they can be used until the expiration date printed on the label. If you store them at room temperature, the capsules or solution should be used within 2 months. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

Pending revision, the material in this section should be considered in light of more recently available information in the MedWatch notification at the beginning of this monograph.

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?

Pending revision, the material in this section should be considered in light of more recently available information in the MedWatch notification at the beginning of this monograph.

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your body's response to lopinavir and ritonavir.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names

Kaletra®

Notes:

[Watch page ]

EditText of this page (last edited March 12, 2008)