About ritonavir
HIV protease inhibitor; pharmacokinetic booster
Used for
- Boosts blood levels of other HIV medicines
- Used with other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV
Usual adult dose
As a booster, commonly 100–200 mg once or twice daily with another HIV medicine; dose depends on the regimen.
Usual dose in children
Specialist-set, weight-based dose with another HIV medicine; dosing depends on age and regimen.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Taste changes or tingling around the mouth
- Raised cholesterol or triglycerides
- Liver enzyme changes
Important warnings
- Many serious interactions; check all medicines, supplements, and herbal products.
- Can cause serious liver problems; risk may be higher with liver disease.
- May raise blood sugar or worsen existing diabetes.
- Do not stop or change HIV treatment without clinical guidance.
Pregnancy
Use with other HIV medicines when appropriate; pregnancy can change drug levels, so clinicians may monitor and adjust treatment.
Breastfeeding
HIV guidance generally recommends avoiding breastfeeding where safe alternatives are available; discuss local recommendations with a clinician.
Interactions
- Strong interactions with certain heart-rhythm, cholesterol, sedative, seizure, and migraine medicines.
- Ritonavir can alter levels of many medicines through liver enzyme effects.
- St John’s wort can lower ritonavir levels and compromise treatment.
- Some HIV medicines require specific ritonavir doses or should not be combined.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.