Kaletra

Lopinavir/ritonavir, the active ingredient in Kaletra, is a protease inhibitor presented as a 200 mg/50 mg tablet for oral use. It treats HIV-1 infection and AIDS in adults and children.

GNH USA supplies Kaletra as a licensed, GDP-compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Kaletra is used in the management of HIV-1 infection, targeting the viral protease pathway.

- HIV-1 infection: reduces viral load and slows disease progression. - Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS): improves immune function and lowers opportunistic infection risk. - Pediatric HIV infection: provides antiretroviral therapy for children when dosed appropriately.

Kaletra may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects: - Diarrhea: frequent loose stools. - Nausea: feeling of sickness. - Vomiting: expulsion of stomach contents. - Headache: mild to moderate pain. - Fatigue: general tiredness. - Elevated liver enzymes: mild increase in ALT/AST.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Hepatotoxicity: severe liver injury. - Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas. - Severe hypersensitivity: rash, Stevens‑Johnson syndrome. - QT prolongation: cardiac rhythm disturbance.

When prescribing Kaletra, several precautions should be considered to ensure safe use.

- Liver function monitoring: assess baseline and periodic ALT/AST levels. - Drug resistance testing: confirm HIV susceptibility before initiation. - Concomitant medications: review for CYP3A interactions. - Pregnancy: use only if benefits outweigh potential risks. - Breastfeeding: avoid use as drug may be excreted in milk. - Store at ambient temperature: keep tablets in original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Kaletra interacts with several medicines; awareness of major and moderate interactions helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): markedly reduce lopinavir levels. - Certain antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone): increase risk of cardiac toxicity. - Other HIV protease inhibitors without boosting (e.g., atazanavir): may cause excessive concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Statins (e.g., simvastatin, lovastatin): increased risk of myopathy. - Sedatives (e.g., midazolam): enhanced central nervous system depression. - Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): altered INR, monitor coagulation. - Oral contraceptives: reduced efficacy, advise backup contraception.