What does it do?

Lopinavir and ritonavir is used with other medicines to control HIV.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have heart or liver problems, diabetes, high cholesterol, or haemophilia.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take lopinavir and ritonavir regularly as directed. It is very important to take it regularly. If you often forget to take lopinavir and ritonavir, it may not work as well.

Tablets: Swallow them whole - do not crush or chew them. You can take them with or without food.
Liquid: Measure carefully with the syringe provided. Take it with food.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Lopinavir and ritonavir can react with many medicines, sometimes with severe results. Remember to tell your pharmacist or doctor you are taking lopinavir and ritonavir before starting any other medicines or treatments, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of liver problems including: yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, pale bowel motions, abdominal pain Severe stomach pain, nausea	Tell your doctor immediately
Peeing more often, feeling thirsty	Tell your doctor
Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting Headache Tiredness or weakness	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• You will need regular blood tests while taking lopinavir and ritonavir to check if it is causing problems with your liver. You will also need blood tests to check your viral load.
• Treatment for HIV may change your body shape. These changes can include fat build-up, fat loss, or both. Discuss this with your doctor.
• As your HIV comes under control, your immune system begins to recover. It may start fighting infections better than before which may make you unwell for a while. Your doctor may call this Immune Reconstitution Syndrome.
• Do not stop taking lopinavir and ritonavir without talking to your doctor first.
• The liquid contains alcohol. Talk to your health professional if this could be a problem for you.