Kaletra drug: Uses, indications and notes when using

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Kaletra is also known as LOPINAVIR-RITONAVIR. The drug is prepared in the form of tablets, the weight of each tablet is 20mg - 50mg. The drug is yellow, oval, film coated, imprinted with "logo and KA".

1. Uses of the drug Kaletra

Kaletra is a combination of two drugs, lopinavir and ritonavir. The drug is used to treat HIV as well as control the source of HIV infection. Kaletra's mechanism of action is to reduce the amount of HIV virus in the body to help the body's immune system work better. Thereby, helping patients reduce the risk of HIV complications such as opportunistic infections or cancer. In addition, the regular and long-term use of Kaletra also improves the quality of life of HIV-infected patients. Two drugs, lopinavir and ritonavir, belong to the group of HIV protease inhibitors and have an additive effect, when taking Ritonavir will increase the level of lopinavir. This helps lopinavir work better. However, Lopinavir and ritonavir are not considered cures for HIV.

2. How to use Kaletra

You need to read the instructions for use carefully before using the medicine. If you have any questions about this medicine, you should contact your doctor for answers. The drug is taken orally and should not be combined with food. You need to swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break or chew the tablet. Whether the amount of medication is prescribed is based on your medical condition, your body's response to the drugs during treatment. Usually, the dosage is one to two times daily or as directed by your doctor. For children, the dosage is based on age, weight and height. The drug is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age. During treatment with Kaletra, you can still take Didanosine, but on condition that you take both and do not take it with food. You need to strictly follow the rules set by the doctor such as taking the medicine on time, in the right dose,... The best way to help you not miss any dose, set a reminder at different times. points to take medicine in your phone. You must not take more than prescribed by your doctor, and do not stop taking it suddenly, including other HIV medicines. This not only increases the viral load, but also makes the infection more difficult to treat (resistance can develop) or worsen side effects.

3. Possible side effects when taking Kaletra

While taking this medicine you may experience some symptoms such as: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, bloating, headache and trouble sleeping. If you see any of these symptoms get worse, go to a medical facility right away to get help from a doctor. Once your immune system improves and becomes healthier; then your body will begin to fight the acquired infection, which can cause symptoms of the disease to return. The body's reactions can appear at any time (when starting treatment or having been treated for a while). Go to the hospital to get medical help if you experience the following: Unexplained weight loss, severe fatigue, muscle pain or weakness that does not go away, severe headache, joint pain , numbness or tingling of hands or feet or arms or legs, vision changes, signs of infection (such as fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, trouble breathing, cough, skin sores that won't heal) , signs of an overactive thyroid (irritability, nervousness, heat intolerance, fast or pounding or irregular heartbeat, bulging eyes, abnormal growth in the neck or thyroid called a goiter) , signs of a certain neurological problem called Guillain-Barre syndrome (such as difficulty breathing or swallowing or eye movement, drooping face, paralysis, difficulty speaking). Some serious side effects may occur, including: Dry mouth, frequent urination, confusion, persistent nausea or vomiting, dark urine, yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes, abdominal pain or other symptoms. stomach problems. If you have any of the following: Symptoms of a heart attack (such as pain in the chest or jaw or left arm, trouble breathing, unusual sweating), severe dizziness, fainting, slow or fast or no Not only that, Kaletra drug also increases blood fat levels (cholesterol and triglycerides). Therefore, people using this medicine need to have their cholesterol and triglycerides checked before and during treatment. Some reactions that signal you have a serious allergy to the drug include: rash, itching, redness, especially in the face or tongue and throat, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing.

4. Precautions

Before use tell your doctor if you are allergic to the ingredients of this medicine or any other type of allergy you may have. This medicine contains some inactive substances that can affect your health. If you experience unusual symptoms while using the drug, consult your doctor for timely treatment. Tell your doctor in detail about your medical history, especially of: Liver disease, diabetes, pancreatitis, high blood fat levels (cholesterol or triglycerides), heart problems (coronary artery disease, pain). heart), bleeding problems (such as hemophilia), certain previous infections (hepatitis B and C, tuberculosis). This plays an important role in the prescription of the drug as well as the outcome of the treatment. Components such as lopinavir or ritonavir can affect heart rate (QT prolongation syndrome). Therefore, if you have symptoms such as: Fast, irregular heartbeat and some other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting), you need to contact your doctor or go to medical facilities immediately. Before surgery, make a complete list of all medications you are taking (including prescription, over-the-counter, or dietary supplements). Older adults should be careful when using this drug as they may be more sensitive to its side effects, especially QT prolongation. Early treatment can reduce your child's risk of HIV transmission. Thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits of the medication with your doctor. Because breast milk can transmit HIV, you should not breastfeed.

5. Notes when using the drug Kaletra

Never share this medicine with other people. You should have regular check-ups or basic tests (such as liver function, blood count, cholesterol or triglyceride levels, blood sugar) to monitor your progress or check for effects. extra. Do not change medications on your own without your doctor's consent. Store the medicine in a cool, dry place and avoid direct sunlight. Leaving the medicine in a place with high humidity can make the medicine moldy and affect the quality of the medicine. Avoid storing this product for longer than 2 weeks out of the box. Keep medicine out of reach of children.

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Reference source: Webmd.com