Kaletra contains Lopinavir, an antiretroviral agent that makes viruses less infectious. It is used to decrease the amount of viruses (viral load) to as low as possible, for as long as possible. It also contains Ritonavir that enhances action of Lopinavir.
Nausea and vomiting are common, and may be prevented by eating small frequent meals or sucking on candy. Headaches and pain can be alleviated with mild painkillers e.g. paracetamol. Other common side effects are diarrhoea, rash, dizziness, feeling tired/weakness and difficulty in sleeping.
Inform your doctor if the side effects become severe and bothersome.
Kaletra is usually taken twice daily. It is usually given in combination with other antiretroviral agents, to achieve significant decrease in viral multiplication.
Kaletra oral solution should be taken with food. High fat meal increases absorption.
Kaletra tablets can be taken with or without food
If you or your child is taking Kaletra together with Didanosine, administer them at least two hours apart from each other.
Do not cut or crush the tablets as this might reduce the efficacy of the medicine.
Missing doses makes Kaletra less effective and may also make the virus resistant to Kaletra and other possible antiretroviral agents.
If you forgot to administer the medication within 4 hours, take the dose as soon as you remember and then continue to take it as per normal. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not double or increase the dose.
If you or your child vomits within 15 minutes of administration, take another dose if possible.
Some medication may reduce its efficacy, or increase its toxicity. Do not take any other medications or herbal products without first consulting your doctor.
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