How is Ritonavir dosed?
The dosage of ritonavir depends on the form of the medication and the individual's medical condition and age. It should be taken with food, and the capsule or tablet should be swallowed whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing it. For patients taking the oral liquid, it should be shaken well before using, and a specially marked measuring syringe or cup should be used to measure each dose accurately. The oral liquid can be mixed with chocolate milk or nutritional drinks and should be consumed within 1 hour of mixing. The oral powder should be mixed with food or liquid (if using a feeding tube, use water to mix the powder) according to the label on the carton. It is crucial to consult with your doctor or pharmacist for the appropriate dosing information based on your specific condition and age.
What is the dosage form of Ritonavir?
Ritonavir is available in the following dosage forms: Capsule, Liquid Filled, Tablet, and Powder.
What medications are contraindication with Ritonavir?
Ritonavir should not be used with the following medications:
- Alfuzosin (Uroxatra)
- Amiodarone (Cordarone)
- Apalutamide (Erleada)
- Astemizole (Hismana)
- Bepridil (Vascor)
- Cisapride (Propulsid)
- Colchicine (Colcrys)
- Dronedarone (Multaq)
- Ergot medicines (e.g., dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine, Cafergot, or Ergomar)
- Flecainide (Tambocor)
- Lomitapide (Juxtapid)
- Lovastatin (Altocor, Mevacor, Zocor)
- Lurasidone (Latuda)
- Oral midazolam (Versed)
- Pimozide (Orap)
- Propafenone (Rythmo)
- Quinidine (Quinaglute)
- Ranolazine (Ranexa)
- Sildenafil (Revatio)
- Simvastatin (Simcor, Vytorin)
- Terfenadine (Seldane)
- Triazolam (Halcion)
- Voriconazole (Vfend)
Using these medicines together with ritonavir may increase the risk of serious side effects. Inform your doctor about all the medications you or your child are currently taking to ensure the safety and effectiveness of ritonavir treatment.
How is Ritonavir administered?
Ritonavir should be swallowed whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing the capsule or tablet. The oral liquid can be mixed with chocolate milk or nutritional drinks to improve taste, but it should be consumed within 1 hour of mixing. The oral powder should be mixed with food or liquid before consumption. If using a feeding tube, water should be used to mix the powder. Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist carefully when administering ritonavir.
What are common precautions when taking Ritonavir?
Common precautions when taking ritonavir orally include:
- Taking the medicine with food to help prevent stomach upset.
- Following the dosing instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.
- Swallowing the medicine whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing the capsule or tablet.
- Using a specially marked measuring syringe or cup to accurately measure each dose of the oral liquid.
- Avoiding mixing ritonavir oral powder with polyurethane feeding tubes.
- Monitoring for side effects and consulting your healthcare professional if you experience any severe side effects. Remember to read and follow the patient information leaflet and patient instructions provided with the medicine, and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.