Prescription Required
Description
Norvir an oral tablet made up of a protease inhibitor/antiviral booster called ritonavir. We carry both the brand choice and generic alternative of this medication in 100mg!
Norvir is used with other medications to control human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and preventing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV is viral infection that slowly weakens your immune system, the body’s natural defense system again disease and infection, over time. HIV is contracted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and saliva, which is why an HIV infected person should never share personal items such as toothbrushes and razors and should always wear protection (like a condom) during sexual intercourse. If HIV goes untreated for too long, the HIV infected person risks developing AIDS. A person has AIDS when HIV has weakened the immune system so much to the point where it can no longer defend against disease and infection, which can become fatal. There is no cure for HIV at this time, but using medication, HIV can be kept under control and AIDS can be prevented.
Norvir (ritonavir) is effective in treating HIV because it is able to decrease the amount of HIV in your body to allow the immune system can work more easily. Ritonavir also has the ability to “boost” the levels of other protease inhibitors, which helps these medications work better.
Directions
Only take this medication the way that your doctor has directed you too. Taking the incorrect dose can lead to unwanted side effects, ineffectiveness, or adverse interactions.
You must take Norvir tablets with food and swallowed whole. Ensure you are taking any other medications you may have been prescribed for your condition as well.
Store this medication at room temperature in a low risk area of heat and moisture.
Cautions
Do not use Norvir (ritonavir)
Do not use this medication if you also take alfuzosin, cisapride, colchicine, St. John's wort, voriconazole, sildenafil (Revatio) when used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), antipsychotic medicine - lurasidone, pimozide, cholesterol-lowering medicine - lovastatin, simvastatin, ergot medicine - dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine, heart medicine - amiodarone, dronedarone, flecainide, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, or a sedative - oral midazolam or triazolam. Serious drug interactions may occur.
Do not use Norvir if you are allergic to ritonavir.
Do not breast feed if you have HIV. This virus can be passed through breast milk and cannot be cured if your baby becomes infected.
Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required
Inform your doctor if you have ever had liver disease (especially hepatitis B or C), heart disease or heart rhythm disorder, diabetes, or a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia.
Risks
This medication will not protect against the spreading of HIV. You must take your own measures of preventing the transmission; wear condoms during sexual intercourse and do not share any personal items that may have bodily fluids on them.
You risk ineffectiveness if you don’t take all your medications prescribed for this condition; ensure you are following all doctor directions regarding Norvir and any other medications you may be prescribed.
If you become pregnant, it is important you tell your doctor right away. HIV may be passed to your baby if it is not kept under control during the time of birth; ensure you are taking all your medications correctly.
Norvir can cause ineffectiveness in birth control pills. If you want to avoid pregnancy, you may need to switch to a non-hormonal birth control such as condoms or a diaphragm.
This medication may cause problems within the liver or pancreas and may also increase blood sugar.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Norvir (ritonavir) may include:
nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea; numbness or tingling in your hands or feet or around your mouth; feeling weak or tired; rash; or changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Norvir (ritonavir) may include:
irregular heartbeats, or a light-headed feeling (like you might pass out); easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin; trouble speaking or swallowing, problems with balance or eye movement, weakness or prickly feeling; or swelling in your neck or throat (enlarged thyroid), menstrual changes, impotence.
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…
high blood sugar: increased thirst, increased urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor.
liver or pancreas problems: loss of appetite, upper stomach pain (that may spread to your back), nausea, vomiting, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
a new infection: fever, night sweats, swollen glands, cold sores, cough, wheezing, diarrhea, weight loss.
FAQs
Will this medication cure my HIV?
No. Unfortunately at this time, there is not known cure for HIV. HIV can only be controlled with medication to prevent further damage to the immune system.
What is the average dose for an adult with HIV?
The average dose for an adult with HIV is 100mg-400mg per day. This may be taken in either 1 dose or 2 divided doses.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the miss dose as soon as you remember or skip it if your next dose is approaching soon. Do not double up on dosages.
What is the best way to store this medication?
Store in room temperature away from moisture, heat and light; keep away from children and pets.
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