Ritonavir+darunavir
About Ritonavir+darunavir
Ritonavir+darunavir belongs to a group of medicines called antiretroviral agents indicated for the treatment of HIV infection. It may decrease the chance of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer.
Ritonavir+darunavir contains Ritonavir and Darunavir. They work by decreasing the amount of HIV in the blood and increasing the number of immune cells that help fight infections in the body. Thereby, Ritonavir+darunavir helps treat HIV infection.
In some cases, Ritonavir+darunavir may cause side effects such as headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Most of these side effects may not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to the doctor if the side effects persist or worsen.
Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy. Breastfeeding is not recommended due to the potential for HIV transmission. Keep the doctor informed about your health condition and medicines you are taking to prevent any side effects/interactions.
Uses of Ritonavir+darunavir
Medicinal Benefits
Ritonavir+darunavir is used to treat HIV infection. It contains Ritonavir and Darunavir, both of which belong to the protease inhibitors class of medicines. Ritonavir+darunavir helps treat HIV infection by reducing the amount of HIV in the blood. This helps improve the immune system and lowers the risk of developing illnesses related to HIV, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), serious infections, or cancer.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Ritonavir+darunavir
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
Drug Warnings
Do not take Ritonavir+darunavir if you are allergic to any of its components. Inform the doctor if you have/had hepatitis B or C infection, liver, kidney or heart problems, diabetes, haemophilia (bleeding disorder) or if you are allergic to sulpha drugs. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy. Women with HIV should not breastfeed as the virus may pass to the baby through breast milk. Let the doctor know if you take other medicines, including supplements or herbal products.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking lipid-lowering agents (rosuvastatin, atorvastatin), anti-coagulant (apixaban), anti-HIV (etravirine, emtricitabine, tenofovir), analgesic (oxycodone), anti-anxiety (alprazolam), hormone (testosterone), calcium channel blocker (diltiazem), or anti-emetic (ondansetron).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform the doctor if you have liver problems, haemophilia, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, or heart block.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionAvoid alcohol consumption during treatment with Ritonavir+darunavir.
Pregnancy
cautionPlease consult the doctor if you are pregnant. Ritonavir+darunavir should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
unsafeBreastfeeding is not recommended due to the potential for HIV transmission.
Driving
cautionIn some cases, Ritonavir+darunavir may cause dizziness. Drive or operate machinery only if you are alert.
Liver
cautionPlease consult the doctor if you have a liver impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Kidney
cautionPlease consult the doctor if you have kidney impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Children
cautionRitonavir+darunavir should be used in children only if advised by a doctor. Please consult the doctor if you have any concerns about the usage of Ritonavir+darunavir in children.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Practise safe sex by using latex or polyurethane condom; it helps in reducing contact with semen and vaginal fluids.
- Never share personal items with body fluids or blood on them, such as razor blades or toothbrushes.
- Do not share or re-use needles, other injection or drug equipment.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Include fruits and vegetables, and opt for lean protein and whole grains.
- Avoid eating raw meat and eggs. Consume properly boiled and cooked meat, poultry or seafood.
- Try to reduce emotional and physical stress by spending time with family or by doing whatever makes you happy.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
HIV infection: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system and destroys the white blood cells that help fight infection, making the individual susceptible to other infections or illnesses. People with HIV experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, tiredness, and sore throat. These symptoms usually last for days to several weeks. HIV spreads through body fluids such as semen, vaginal fluid, and blood. If left untreated, this condition can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). It is a life-long condition, and there is no definite cure for it. However, it can be controlled by treating it with antiretroviral drugs.
FAQs
Ritonavir+darunavir is used to treat HIV infection.
Ritonavir+darunavir works by decreasing the amount of HIV in the blood. Thereby, it helps treat HIV infection.
Ritonavir+darunavir might make birth control hormonal pills less effective. Talk to the doctor regarding other forms of contraception such as condoms, diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge.
Do not stop taking Ritonavir+darunavir without consulting your doctor, as it may reduce the effectiveness of anti-HIV therapy. To treat your condition effectually, continue taking Ritonavir+darunavir for as long as your doctor has prescribed it. Do not be reluctant to speak with your doctor if you experience difficulty taking Ritonavir+darunavir.
Ritonavir+darunavir does not cure HIV infection or AIDS. You must stay on continuous therapy to control HIV infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.
