Buy Kaletra Online

Kaletra (Lopinavir; Ritonavir) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Kaletra?

Kaletra (Lopinavir; Ritonavir) is a combination antiviral tablet indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and children weighing at least 14 kg. It belongs to the protease-inhibitor class of antiretroviral drugs. The product is supplied in a bottle of tablets, each bottle containing 60 tablets. It is approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and conforms to international standards.

Who Should Use Kaletra?

• Adults living with HIV-1 who have been assessed as needing a protease-inhibitor regimen.
• Children ≥ 14 kg with HIV-1 infection.
• Patients who require a fixed-dose combination to simplify dosing.

How Does It Work?

Kaletra combines two protease inhibitors: lopinavir blocks the HIV protease enzyme, preventing the virus from maturing into an infectious form, while ritonavir boosts lopinavir levels by inhibiting its metabolism. The result is sustained suppression of viral replication, allowing the immune system to recover. The medication has no abuse potential.

Why Choose Kaletra?

• Convenient fixed dose: One tablet contains both agents, reducing pill burden.
• Proven efficacy: Widely used in South African treatment programs with robust clinical data.
• Off-label uses (e.g., COVID-19) should only be considered after specialist consultation and are not supported by routine guidelines.

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• Adults: One tablet (600 mg/150 mg) taken twice daily with food.
• Children ≥ 14 kg: Dose is weight-based; follow the prescribing information for exact tablet count.

How to Take

1. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
2. Take it with a meal (at least 250 kcal) to improve absorption.
3. Keep the dosing interval roughly 12 hours apart.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose and it is less than 6 hours until the next scheduled dose, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 6 hours have passed, skip the missed tablet and continue with your regular schedule-do not double-dose.

Overdose

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Seek immediate medical attention or contact the local poison information centre (011 239 4222).

Special Populations

• Elderly: No dose adjustment needed, but monitor liver function.
• Renal impairment: No adjustment required unless on dialysis.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution; avoid in severe liver disease.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Food: Must be taken with a meal; fasting reduces drug levels.
• Grapefruit: Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice as it can increase ritonavir concentrations.
• Alcohol: Moderate consumption is acceptable, but excessive intake may worsen liver toxicity.

Precautions and Warnings

• Liver toxicity: Monitor ALT/AST regularly; discontinue if severe elevation occurs.
• Hyperlipidaemia: Lipid profile should be checked at baseline and periodically.
• Drug resistance: Adherence is critical; missed doses increase resistance risk.
• Pregnancy: Use only if benefits outweigh risks; consult a specialist.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Headache
• Fatigue

Less Common Side Effects

• Rash
• Elevated triglycerides
• Insomnia

Serious Side Effects

• Liver inflammation (jaundice, dark urine) - stop medication and seek urgent care.
• Severe pancreatitis (upper abdominal Pain) - consult a doctor immediately.
• Allergic reactions (swelling, breathing difficulty) - emergency medical attention required.

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to lopinavir, ritonavir, or any excipients.
• Individuals with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C).
• Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers that cannot be discontinued.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25 °C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Kaletra Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Kaletra to lower viral load?

Typically, a significant reduction is seen within 4-8 weeks of consistent therapy.

Can I drink coffee while taking Kaletra?

Yes, moderate coffee intake does not affect drug levels.

Is it safe to take Kaletra with my contraceptive pill?

Kaletra can reduce hormonal contraceptive efficacy; use a backup method such as condoms.

What should I do if I experience persistent diarrhoea?

Contact your healthcare provider; they may recommend dietary adjustments or anti-diarrhoeal medication.

Can I take Kaletra while on tuberculosis treatment?

Standard TB regimens contain rifampicin, a strong CYP3A4 inducer that lowers Kaletra levels; alternative TB drugs or dose adjustments are needed.

Does Kaletra affect blood sugar?

It can increase insulin resistance; monitor glucose if you have Diabetes.

I’m starting a new cholesterol medication; will there be an interaction?

Statins like Simvastatin have increased exposure with Kaletra; your doctor may choose pravastatin or adjust the statin dose.

How should I handle a missed dose during a weekend?

Take the missed tablet as soon as you remember if it’s within 6 hours of the usual time; otherwise skip and resume the regular schedule.

Is Kaletra safe for breastfeeding mothers?

Lopinavir and ritonavir are excreted in breast milk in low amounts; discuss risks and benefits with a specialist.

What lifestyle changes support the effectiveness of Kaletra?

Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and keep follow-up appointments for lab monitoring.

Glossary

• Protease inhibitor: A drug that blocks an enzyme HIV needs to mature, halting viral replication.
• Boosting: Using ritonavir to inhibit metabolism of another drug, increasing its concentration.
• Hyperlipidaemia: Elevated levels of fats (cholesterol, triglycerides) in the blood.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Off-label uses require specialist consultation. Our online pharmacy platform facilitates the purchase of medicines that are legally available in South Africa, but the responsibility for safe use rests with the patient and their healthcare provider. Always consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.