What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Kaletra (Ritonavir/Lopinavir)
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Product Details
Description
Kaletra is a medication your doctor may prescribe to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) It is often given in combination with other antiviral medications.
HIV is a viral infection of the immune system. HIV viral particles attach to, enter, and destroy cells of the immune system that fight off infection.
Fact Table
Formula
C37H48N6O5S2
License
EU EMA, US FDA
Bioavailability
-
Legal status
RX Only
Chemical Name
Lopinavir/ritonavir
Elimination half-life
3-5 hours
Dosage (Strength)
80/20mg
Pregnancy
No known risks
Brands
Kaletra, Aluvia
Protein binding
98-99%
PubChem CID
11979606
MedlinePlus
a602015
ChEBI
45409
ATC code
J05AR10
DrugBank
DB00503
KEGG
D02498
Routes of administration
By mouth
Directions
Take Kaletra exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
The usual dosage is 800/200 mg by mouth once or twice daily.
Ingredients
The active ingredients are lopinavir and ritonavir.
Interactions
Kaletra is formulated with an ingredient, ritonavir, which is designed to boost the amount of the other medication in the drug, lopinavir. Consequently, Kaletra has many drug interactions, including:
- Alfuzosin
- Alprazolam
- Amiodarone
- Anti Hepacivirus combination products
- Apalutamide
- Aprepitant
- Atovaquone
- Avanafil
- Bortezomib
- Bosutinib
- Budesonide
- Clarithromycin
- Clobetasone
- Cobicistat
- Darunavir
- Disulfiram
- Domperidone
- Doxorubicin
- Dronedarone
- Eletriptan
- Eplerenone
- Ergot derivatives
- Everolimus
- Flecainide
- Fluticasone
- Fosamprenavir
- Fosaprepitant
- Ibrutinib
- Ivabradine
- Lovastatin
- Lurasidone
- Metronidazole
- Midazolam
- Pimozide
- Propafenone
- Quinidine
- Quinine
- Red yeast rice
- Rifampin
- Rivaroxaban
- Salmeterol
- Simvastatin
- St. John's Wort
- Tamsulosin
- Triazolam
- Vincristine
- Voriconazole
Cautions
Kaletra has been known to cause pancreatitis in some individuals.
Your doctor should monitor your liver function before starting Kaletra.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart disease or arrhythmias.
Kaletra may increase blood sugar and contribute to the development of diabetes mellitus.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Kaletra may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Altered glucose
- Anemia
- Anxiety
- Decreased creatinine clearance
- Dermatitis
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hypertension
- Increased liver enzymes
- Leukopenia
- Lower respiratory tract infection
- Neutropenia
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Vomiting
References
Kaletra [package insert]. Chicago, IL: AbbVie; 2016.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kaletra
What is Kaletra, and what is it used for?
Kaletra is a medication that contains two active ingredients, lopinavir, and ritonavir. It is primarily used in the treatment of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It belongs to a class of drugs known as protease inhibitors and is typically prescribed as part of a combination therapy to manage HIV.
How does Kaletra work in the treatment of HIV?
Kaletra works by inhibiting the activity of the HIV protease enzyme. This enzyme is essential for the replication of the virus. By blocking protease, Kaletra helps to reduce the viral load in the body and slow down the progression of HIV.
Is Kaletra a cure for HIV/AIDS?
No, Kaletra is not a cure for HIV/AIDS. It is used as part of an antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen to manage the virus, control symptoms, and slow down the progression of the disease. HIV remains a chronic condition, and there is no known cure.
What are the common side effects of Kaletra?
Common side effects of Kaletra may include nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, and changes in taste. These side effects are generally mild and often improve with time. However, some patients may experience more severe side effects, and it's essential to report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider.
Is Kaletra safe for long-term use?
Kaletra can be used for long-term treatment of HIV under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Regular monitoring is essential to assess its effectiveness and check for any potential side effects.
Are there any drug interactions with Kaletra?
Kaletra can interact with various medications, including other antiretroviral drugs and medications used to treat other health conditions. It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Can Kaletra be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
The use of Kaletra during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered in consultation with a healthcare provider. The potential benefits and risks must be evaluated for each individual situation.
How should Kaletra be taken?
Kaletra is typically taken by mouth as part of a combination therapy for HIV. The dosage and administration instructions should be followed as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Can Kaletra prevent the transmission of HIV to others?
Kaletra is not intended for use as a standalone preventive measure against HIV transmission. It is used to manage the virus in individuals who are already infected. HIV prevention methods, such as safe sex practices and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), should be discussed with a healthcare provider for those at risk of HIV.
Is Kaletra suitable for all individuals with HIV?
Kaletra may not be suitable for everyone with HIV, as the choice of antiretroviral therapy depends on individual factors such as the stage of the disease, other health conditions, and potential drug interactions. A healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 2171
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