You're not logged in. Please log in to earn stock or Bitcoin rewards on your prescription purchase.
Ritonavir
Ritonavir is an antiretroviral medication used primarily in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It functions as a protease inhibitor, inhibiting the HIV protease enzyme, which is essential for the replication of the virus. Ritonavir is often used in combination with other antiretroviral agents to enhance the overall effectiveness of HIV treatment regimens.
Rx. Enter your prescription
How would you like to get your prescription? Select an option
Pharmacy pickup
Select from 35,000 pharmacies
Free two-day delivery
Coming soon!
Find a pharmacy near you. Enter your ZIP code
Are you a member? Sign up or log in.
Members have saved
$NaN
using our savings card for instant savings.
Don't pay full retail price and miss out on potential savings. Try it now—you have nothing to lose!
NaNM
worth of Satoshi has been rewarded to our members.
Everyone who signs up enjoys the benefits of earning FREE Bitcoin with every purchase.
How much Bitcoin can you earn with Ritonavir ?
The potential for Bitcoin rewards to increase and appreciate in value is a possibility to consider, which may occur over time.
See the value of your savings today
Today's Value
1 Bitcoin = $NaN
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Adjust Bitcoin's potential value to see how much it could be worth
Potential Value
1 Bitcoin =
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does ritonavir start to work?
Patients may begin to notice improvements in their viral load within a few weeks of starting treatment, but it may take longer for full therapeutic effects to be observed.
Can I stop taking ritonavir suddenly?
It is not advisable to stop taking ritonavir abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this may lead to a rebound in viral replication and development of resistance.
Are there any specific dietary restrictions while using ritonavir?
There are no specific dietary restrictions, but taking ritonavir with food is recommended to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
What should I do if I miss a dose of ritonavir?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Is ritonavir safe for long-term use?
Ritonavir is generally considered safe for long-term use in managing HIV infection, but regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor for efficacy and any potential side effects, particularly concerning liver and cardiac health.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Ritonavir Work?
Ritonavir works by binding to the active site of the HIV protease enzyme, preventing the cleavage of viral polyproteins into functional proteins necessary for viral assembly and maturation. This inhibition leads to the production of immature, non-infectious viral particles, effectively reducing the viral load in the body.
Common Dosages
- Capsules: Common strengths include 100 mg and 300 mg.
- Tablets: Common strength is 100 mg.
- Oral solution: 80 mg/mL.
Typical Dosing
- For HIV treatment: The usual recommended dose is 300 mg taken orally twice daily for the capsule or tablet forms. For the oral solution, the recommended dose is 100 mg taken twice daily.
- Ritonavir is often used at lower doses as a booster in combination with other protease inhibitors, enhancing their effectiveness by increasing their plasma concentration.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents in adults and pediatric patients.
Who Shouldn't Take Ritonavir?
- Known hypersensitivity to ritonavir or any components of the formulation.
- Severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease.
- Concomitant use with certain medications that can cause significant interactions or are contraindicated (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, ergot alkaloids, or sedative-hypnotics).
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Instruct patients to take ritonavir exactly as prescribed and to adhere to the dosing schedule for optimal efficacy.
- Advise patients about the importance of taking ritonavir with food to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
- Discuss potential side effects and encourage patients to report any unusual symptoms, such as rash or liver-related symptoms.
Side Effects of Ritonavir
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Severe allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing)
- Liver enzyme elevations, leading to hepatotoxicity
- Changes in heart rhythm (QT prolongation).
Risks and Warnings of Ritonavir
- Hepatic Effects: Regular monitoring of liver function tests is recommended, particularly in patients with pre-existing liver conditions.
- Cardiovascular Effects: Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of cardiac issues, as ritonavir can affect heart rhythm.
Interactions with Ritonavir
Common Drug Interactions
- CYP450 Interactions: Ritonavir is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, and its use can significantly affect the metabolism of other drugs that are substrates of this enzyme. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
- Other Antiretroviral Agents: Ritonavir is often used in combination with other antiretrovirals, and careful consideration of dosing and interactions is necessary.
Alternatives to Ritonavir
- Other Protease Inhibitors: Alternatives may include other protease inhibitors such as lopinavir, atazanavir, or darunavir, depending on individual patient needs and drug interactions.
