Kaletra is a medicine that is a combination of the drugs: Norvir and Lopinavir and is used for the treatment of HIV. The drug was approved by USFDA in 2000.
Human immunodeficiency virus- 1 (HIV-1) can be treated using prescription medicine Kaletra along with various antiretroviral medications. The medicine can be used for above-14 children and adults as well, although for the children under that age, it is yet unknown if Kaletra is safe for them or not.
AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is caused by the HIV virus.
General Information about Kaletra
Dosage
For adults: Two tablets two times in a day or 4 tablets at one time, it depends upon the drug resistance of HIV. The drug can be taken without or with food.
What to inform the doctor before taking Kaletra?
Inform your health care professional about all your other medical conditions and if you have any allergic reaction to the elements of Kaletra. Inform them about any preexisting health problems such as liver, heart or pancreas problems or if you're pregnant or are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding during Kaletra treatment should be completely avoided as if you have HIV-1 you risk passing it on to the baby.
Also, make sure to inform the doctor about any medications that you're taking be it vitamins, medicines or herbal supplements and also do not start any new medicines without consultation.
Side Effects
Mostly seen side effects of the drug Kaletra include headache, weakness, abnormal bowel movement, vomiting, nausea and also diarrhea while some children can develop skin rashes.
There also have been reports of Drug-induced hepatitis or liver injury in the people consuming protease inhibitors such as Kaletra. The problem was usually found in people who exhibited CD4 cells in extremely low amounts and also had hepatitis B or hepatitis C.
People can also develop serious problems involving their pancreas, which can also result in death, so inform your doctor if you had pancreatitis in the past.
The interaction of Kaletra with other medications should be observed and a person should know which medication they shouldn't take while taking Kaletra.
The changes in the rate of your heartbeat and changes in heart rhythm can occur while using Kaletra, your heart's electrical activity could be abnormal. These things can lead to extensive heart issues.
If the person already has any heart problems such as the ones giving above, they are more susceptible to affect your rhythm while taking Kaletra.
If you experience lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, or an abnormal heartbeat, visit your doctor at the instant.
The drug might also cause some changes within your immune system which will result in the surfacing of old and hidden infections as your immune system gets stronger. Consult your doctor at once if you start experiencing new symptoms.
Conclusion:
Kaletra is a drug that is used in the treatment of HIV and it should be used very carefully and you should avoid the drug if you face any side effects above and get yourself checked out instantly.
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