Kaletra (Lopinavir, Ritonavir)

Lopinavir blocks the HIV‑1 protease enzyme, preventing the virus from processing essential proteins needed for new viral particles. Ritonavir is included at a low dose to inhibit the CYP3A enzyme, which slows the metabolism of lopinavir, thereby increasing its blood concentration and extending its antiviral effect.

The prescribed dose of Kaletra is determined by the treating clinician based on the patient’s age, weight, viral load, and treatment history. Tablets are available as 200 mg of lopinavir combined with 50 mg of ritonavir, and the prescriber decides the number of tablets and dosing schedule.

Safety data for Kaletra in pregnancy and lactation are limited. The product is classified as pregnancy category unknown, and it should only be used when the potential benefits justify any potential risk to the fetus. Breastfeeding is generally discouraged because the drug can be excreted in breast milk.

To order Kaletra, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com specifying the required quantity. GNH India works with hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.

Kaletra belongs to the protease inhibitor class, offering a high barrier to resistance when combined with ritonavir. Compared with newer integrase inhibitors, it may have more drug‑interaction potential but remains a standard component of many WHO‑recommended regimens, especially where cost or availability of newer agents is limited.

Kaletra tablets should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in their original packaging to protect them from moisture and heat. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children. No special refrigeration is required.

Kaletra is taken orally as a tablet, usually with food to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset. The tablets are swallowed whole with water; they should not be crushed, chewed, or split unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional.

Serious adverse events include hepatotoxicity (significant liver injury), pancreatitis, severe hypersensitivity reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, and cardiac effects like QT‑interval prolongation. Patients should report any persistent abdominal pain, jaundice, rash, or unusual heart palpitations to their clinician promptly.

Kaletra is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to lopinavir, ritonavir, or any tablet excipients. It should also be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment, as the drug’s metabolism relies heavily on liver function. Clinicians must assess each patient’s medical history before initiating therapy.