Ritonavir - Benefits and Risks

Ritonavir is a medication primarily used to increase the effectiveness of other antiretroviral drugs in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It acts as a pharmacokinetic enhancer.
Category
Drug
Where to get
Obtainable through prescription at pharmacies or healthcare settings.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Ritonavir FAQ

What is ritonavir used for?

Ritonavir is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1-infected patients. Though initially developed as an independent antiviral treatment, it is most commonly used as a pharmacokinetic enhancer, in order to increase the plasma concentrations of other antiretrovirals.

Is ritonavir a cure for HIV?

Ritonavir belongs to a class of drugs known as protease inhibitors. It increases ("boosts") the levels of other protease inhibitors, which helps these medications work better.Ritonavir is not a cure for HIV infection. To decrease your risk of spreading HIV disease to others, continue to take all HIV medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

What does ritonavir (Norvir) mean?

Ritonavir (Norvir) is a drug used in combination with other drugs for the treatment of HIV infection. Review side effects, drug interactions, dosage, and pregnancy safety information prior to taking this medication. Acronym for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the cause of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). See a picture of HIV/AIDS...

Is ritonavir a protease inhibitor?

Ritonavir (center) bound to the active site of HIV protease. [citation needed] Ritonavir was originally developed as an inhibitor of HIV protease, one of a family of pseudo- C2 -symmetric small molecule inhibitors. Ritonavir is rarely used for its own antiviral activity but remains widely used as a booster of other protease inhibitors.

How is ritonavir prescribed?

Ritonavir will be prescribed for you by a doctor who is a specialist. It belongs to a group of antiretroviral medicines known as protease inhibitors (PIs). It is given alongside a number of other antiretroviral medicines, as part of a combination therapy.

How does ritonavir help with HIV?

It helps to decrease the amount of HIV in your body so your immune system can work better. This lowers your chance of getting HIV complications (such as new infections, cancer) and improves your quality of life.Ritonavir belongs to a class of drugs known as protease inhibitors.

What is the generic name of ritonavir?

Generic name: ritonavir [ rit-OH-na-vir ] Brand names: Norvir, Norvir Soft Gelatin Dosage forms: oral powder for reconstitution (100 mg), oral tablet (100 mg) Drug classes: Antiviral boosters, Protease inhibitors Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 10, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum. What is ritonavir?

Ritonavir References

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