Kaletra: Advanced Protease Inhibitor for HIV-1 Management
Kaletra
| Product dosage: 250mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $4.50 | $270.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $4.17 | $540.00 $500.00 (7%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $4.06 | $810.00 $730.00 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 240 | $4.00 | $1080.00 $961.00 (11%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 300 | $3.97 | $1350.00 $1192.00 (12%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $3.95
Best per pill | $1620.00 $1423.00 (12%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Kaletra is a fixed-dose combination antiretroviral medication containing lopinavir and ritonavir, designed for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in adults and pediatric patients. As a protease inhibitor, it works by blocking the viral protease enzyme, thereby inhibiting the replication of HIV and helping to reduce viral load. It is indicated for use in combination with other antiretroviral agents as part of a comprehensive HIV treatment strategy. Kaletra is formulated to offer a high genetic barrier to resistance and is a cornerstone in both treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced patient regimens.
Features
- Contains lopinavir 200 mg and ritonavir 50 mg per tablet
- Available as film-coated tablets and oral solution
- Fixed-dose combination for simplified dosing
- Does not require refrigeration for tablets; oral solution must be refrigerated
- Bioavailability enhanced by ritonavir boosting
Benefits
- Effectively suppresses HIV-1 viral load to undetectable levels
- Helps restore and maintain CD4+ T-cell counts
- Reduces the risk of HIV-related complications and disease progression
- High barrier to resistance supports long-term treatment durability
- Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence
- Suitable for a broad range of patients, including pediatric populations
Common use
Kaletra is used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) for the management of HIV-1 infection. It is prescribed for both treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced patients, including those who have developed resistance to other protease inhibitors. It may also be used in certain post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) scenarios under expert guidance.
Dosage and direction
The recommended adult dosage is 400 mg lopinavir/100 mg ritonavir (two tablets) twice daily taken with or without food. For treatment-naïve adults, an alternative once-daily dosing regimen of 800 mg lopinavir/200 mg ritonavir (four tablets) may be considered. Pediatric dosing is based on body weight or body surface area and must be calculated precisely. Tablets should be swallowed whole; do not crush, chew, or break. The oral solution should be administered using the provided dosing syringe or cup.
Precautions
Kaletra should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing liver disease, including hepatitis B or C co-infection, due to the risk of hepatotoxicity. Monitor liver enzymes before and during treatment. Use with caution in patients with cardiac conduction abnormalities or structural heart disease. Pancreatitis has been reported; discontinue if symptoms occur. May cause exacerbation of diabetes or hyperglycemia. Fat redistribution may occur with long-term use.
Contraindications
Kaletra is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to lopinavir, ritonavir, or any component of the formulation. Coadministration with drugs highly dependent on CYP3A or CYP2D6 for clearance and for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious or life-threatening events is contraindicated. This includes, but is not limited to, alfuzosin, amiodarone, cisapride, ergot derivatives, lovastatin, simvastatin, pimozide, triazolam, and oral midazolam.
Possible side effect
Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and asthenia. Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides are frequently observed. Less common but serious adverse reactions include pancreatitis, hepatotoxicity, PR interval prolongation, and rash. Lipodystrophy and metabolic abnormalities may occur with long-term use.
Drug interaction
Kaletra is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 and may increase plasma concentrations of drugs metabolized by these enzymes. It may also induce CYP enzymes and glucuronosyl transferase, leading to reduced concentrations of some drugs. Significant interactions occur with antiarrhythmics, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, sedatives, statins, and many others. Review all concomitant medications prior to initiation.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed within 6 hours of the scheduled time, the patient should take it as soon as possible and then resume the normal schedule. If more than 6 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote for overdose. Treatment should consist of general supportive measures, including monitoring of vital signs and observation of clinical status. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be beneficial due to high protein binding.
Storage
Store tablets at room temperature (20°–25°C); excursions permitted between 15°–30°C. Keep in original container; protect from moisture. Oral solution must be refrigerated (2°–8°C); do not freeze. If stored at room temperature, use within 2 months. Keep out of reach of children.
Disclaimer
This information is intended for healthcare professionals. It is not exhaustive and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult the full prescribing information and clinical guidelines before initiating therapy. Dosage and administration must be individualized based on patient factors and treatment history.
Reviews
Clinical trials and real-world evidence support the efficacy and safety of Kaletra in diverse patient populations. It is recognized in major treatment guidelines, including those from the WHO and DHHS, for its role in HIV management. Healthcare providers report reliable viral suppression and manageable side effect profiles with appropriate monitoring. Patient adherence is supported by the fixed-dose formulation, though gastrointestinal side effects may require management.