What is Kaletra ?
Kaletra is a co-formulation of two protease inhibitors (lopinavir + ritonavir) which are used to treat HIV infection. In order to treat HIV effectively, Kaletra MUST be taken in combination with other HIV medications as prescribed.

How does Kaletra work ?
Ritonavir inhibits the metabolism of lopinavir thereby providing increased blood levels of lopinavir. It is believed that achieving higher blood levels of lopinavir will make it more difficult for the HIV virus to develop drug resistance. Lopinavir, like all protease inhibitors, interferes with a specific HIV enzyme. This enzyme is important because it allows for the production of new HIV viruses which can infect more CD4 immune cells. When Kaletra is taken in combination with other HIV medications we can prevent the virus from further weakening the immune system. If Kaletra is effective then you should expect to see an increase in T-cells (CD4 immune cells) and decrease in HIV viral load.

How should Kaletra be taken ?
Kaletra should be taken with food. Each Kaletra capsule contains 133 mg of lopinavir and 33 mg of ritonavir. The usual dose is 3 capsules taken twice daily.

It is very important to try not to miss or skip any doses. The fewer doses a person skips the fewer opportunities the HIV virus has to develop resistance to the medication.

What does Kaletra look like ?
Kaletra is a soft-gel orange colored capsule.

How should Kaletra be stored ?
It is recommended to store Kaletra in the refrigerator. If stored in the refrigerator the capsules are good until the expiration date on the bottle. If Kaletra is stored at room temperature then the capsules should be used within two months.

What are the potential side effects of Kaletra ?
The most common side effects of Kaletra are diarrhea, nausea, and weakness. Keletra can also cause an increase in triglycerides and cholesterol.

Are there potential drug interactions with Kaletra ?
YES !! Kaletra can interact with other medications, therefore it is important to tell your medical provider and pharmacist about any other medications you are also taking before starting Kaletra.