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Lopinavir / Ritonavir (Kaletra®)

Antiretroviral

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What is Kaletra®?

Kaletra® is a capsule that contains 2 medicines used to treat infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The 2 medicines are called lopinavir and ritonavir. Both belong to a group called protease inhibitors (PIs). Protease is the part of the virus that allows it to multiply, leave the cell, and move into the blood and body. Kaletra® can slow down how soon you will see symptoms or slow the damage caused by HIV, but it cannot cure HIV infection. Kaletra® is available as a capsule that contains 133 mg of lopinavir and 33 mg of ritonavir. Kaletra® is also available as a liquid.

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Possible side effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • High blood cholesterol level

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take Lopinavir / Ritonavir (Kaletra®) will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Refrigerate Kaletra® capsules and liquid whenever possible. Kaletra® may be kept at room temperature and away from excessive heat for up to one (1) month.
  • Blood tests can find some side effects, such as high levels of blood cholesterol. It is very important that you come to the clinic regularly for blood tests.
  • Several medicines may affect the way Kaletra® works. These medicines include:
    • Garlic
    • Phenytoin
    • Rifampin
    • St. John’s wort
  • Kaletra® may affect the way other medicines work. These medicines include:
    • Alprazolam
    • Amiodarone
    • Atorvastatin
    • Carbamazepime
    • Birth control pills
    • Cyclosporine
    • Diazepam
    • Lovastatin
    • Simvastatin
  • Always tell the doctor if you are taking any of these medicines or if you start taking any new medicines while you are taking Kaletra®.

Lopinavir / Ritonavir (Kaletra®) at home:

  • This medicine is usually taken one (1) time in the morning and one (1) time at night.
  • Take Kaletra® with food.
  • You may mix Kaletra® liquid with juice, milk, or formula to help improve the medicine’s taste.

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: June 2024