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.
Norvir (Ritonavir)
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Product Details
Description
Norvir is an antiviral medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1). Since Norvir has been used for several years, it is no longer effective on its own to treat HIV-1 infection. However, it is still used to “boost” the amount of other antivirals and increase their effectiveness.
Fact Table
Formula
C37H48N6O5S2
License
US FDA, EU EMA
Bioavailability
60% to 80%
Legal status
Rx-only
Chemical Name
Ritonavir
Elimination half-life
3-5 hours
Dosage (Strength)
100mg
Pregnancy
Consult Doctor
Brands
Norvir
Protein binding
98-99%
PubChem CID
392622
MedlinePlus
a696029
ChEBI
45409
ATC code
J05AE03
DrugBank
DB00503
KEGG
D00427
Routes of administration
By mouth
Directions
The standard dosage of Norvir is 600 mg by mouth twice daily. The dosage may need to be reduced if you are taking other antiviral medications.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Norvir is ritonavir, which is the name for Norvir generic.
Interactions
Norvir has many potential drug-drug interactions. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about any medications you are taking, including:
- Alfuzosin
- Alprazolam
- Amiodarone
- Antihepaciviral 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
Your doctor should check for liver or pancreas problems before starting Norvir.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart disease or heart arrhythmias.
Some people experience a redistribution of body fat while taking Norvir.
This medication can increase blood sugar and contribute to the development of diabetes mellitus.
Side Effects
The following are common side effects that you may experience while taking Norvir:
- Abdominal pain
- Arthralgia
- Back pain
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dysgeusia
- Dyspepsia
- Fatigue
- Feeling hot
- Flushing
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Increase gamma-glutamyl transferase
- Increased creatinine phosphokinase
- Increased serum triglycerides
- Nausea
- Paresthesia
- Pruritus
- Skin rash
- Vomiting
References
Norvir [package insert]. Chicago, IL: AbbVie; 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions about Norvir
What is Norvir, and what is it used for?
Norvir, also known as ritonavir, is a medication used in the treatment of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It is classified as a protease inhibitor and is typically prescribed as part of a combination therapy to manage HIV.
How does Norvir work in the treatment of HIV?
Norvir works by inhibiting the activity of the HIV protease enzyme. This enzyme is essential for the replication of the virus. By blocking protease, Norvir helps to reduce the viral load in the body and slow down the progression of HIV.
Is Norvir a cure for HIV/AIDS?
No, Norvir 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 Norvir?
Common side effects of Norvir 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 Norvir safe for long-term use?
Norvir 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 Norvir?
Norvir 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 Norvir be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
The use of Norvir 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 Norvir be taken?
Norvir 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 Norvir prevent the transmission of HIV to others?
Norvir 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 Norvir suitable for all individuals with HIV?
Norvir 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 : 11323
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