Norvir (Ritonavir Capsules, Oral Solution) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Norvir

Human Immunodeficiency Virus »

HIV facts

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a type of virus called a retrovirus, which infects humans when it comes in contact with tissues such as those that line the vagina, anal area, mouth, or eyes, or through a break in the skin.
HIV infection is generally a slowly progressive disease in which the virus is present throughout the body at all stages of the disease.
Three stages of HIV infection have been described.

The initial stage of infection (primary infection), which occurs within weeks of acquiring the virus, and often is characterized by a flu- or mono-like illness that generally resolves within weeks.
The stage of chronic asymptomatic infection (meaning a long duration of infection without symptoms) lasts an average of eight to 10 years.
The stage of symptomatic infection, in which the body's immune (or defense) system has...

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Norvir Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ritonavir (Norvir)?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to ritonavir.

Do not take ritonavir with any of the following medications:

alfuzosin (Uroxatral);
amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone);
cisapride (Propulsid);
flecainide (Tambocor);
midazolam (Versed) or triazolam (Halcion);
pimozide (Orap);
propafenone (Rythmol);
quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute);
voriconazole (Vfend); or
ergot medicines such as ergotamine (Ergomar, Cafergot), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal Nasal Spray), ergonovine (Ergotrate), or methylergonovine (Methergine).

These drugs can cause life-threatening side effects if you use them while you are taking ritonavir.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take ritonavir:

liver disease;
diabetes;
a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia; or
high cholesterol or triglycerides.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby, but HIV can be passed to the baby if the mother is not properly treated during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Take all of your HIV medicines as directed to control your infection while you are pregnant.

Ritonavir can make birth control pills or patches less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) to prevent pregnancy while taking ritonavir.

You should not breast-feed while you are using ritonavir. Women with HIV or AIDS should not breast-feed at all. Even if your baby is born without HIV, you may still pass the virus to the baby in your breast milk.

How should I take ritonavir (Norvir)?

Take ritonavir exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Ritonavir works best if you take it with food.

Measure the liquid form (oral solution) of ritonavir with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Liquid ritonavir can be mixed with chocolate milk or a nutrition drink such as Ensure. Drink the mixture within 1 hour after mixing.

It is important to use ritonavir regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

HIV/AIDS is usually treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Be sure to read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor. Every person with HIV or AIDS should remain under the care of a doctor.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store ritonavir capsules in the refrigerator or at room temperature, away from heat or moisture. If you store the capsules at room temperature you must use them within 30 days.

Store ritonavir liquid at room temperature with the cap tightly closed. Do not refrigerate.

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