Atazanavir + Ritonavir

Atazanavir + Ritonavir — Uses and Benefits

This combination medicine is used mainly to treat HIV infection in adults and children as advised by a doctor.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of HIV-1 infection as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART)
• Used along with other anti-HIV medicines to control the virus
• Helps in reducing viral load and improving immune function

HOW IT WORKS

• Atazanavir is a protease inhibitor that blocks an enzyme HIV needs to multiply
• Ritonavir itself has weak anti-HIV activity but strongly boosts atazanavir levels in blood
• Together they help keep the amount of virus in the body low
• This helps the immune system recover and lowers the risk of HIV-related illness

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not cure HIV infection
• It does not prevent transmission of HIV to others
• Not used for other viral infections like hepatitis or common flu
• Not a substitute for safe sex practices or other preventive measures

How to Use Atazanavir + Ritonavir

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Take with food to improve absorption
• Swallow the tablet/capsule whole; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take at the same time every day to maintain steady blood levels
• Continue taking even if you feel well; do not stop without consulting your doctor
• Do not skip doses as this can lead to drug resistance

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor as this affects treatment success

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture
• Keep in original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Atazanavir + Ritonavir — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (mild, due to bilirubin rise)
• Sleep disturbances

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Rash
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fat redistribution (change in body shape)
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Taste changes

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling
• Signs of liver problems: dark urine, severe yellowing of eyes/skin, severe stomach pain
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting
• Signs of allergic reaction: swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Signs of kidney stones: severe back or side pain, blood in urine

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Atazanavir + Ritonavir — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to atazanavir, ritonavir, or any other ingredient in the product
• Have severe liver disease (unless specifically advised by a doctor)
• Are taking certain medicines that interact seriously with this combination (like some heart rhythm drugs, sedatives, or ergot medicines)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have diabetes or high blood sugar
• Have heart rhythm problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have haemophilia or bleeding disorders
• Are taking any other prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antiretroviral drugs
• Acid-reducing medicines (antacids, proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers)
• Statins used for cholesterol
• Certain sedatives and anti-anxiety medicines
• Hormonal contraceptives
• Rifampicin and some anti-tuberculosis drugs
• Herbal products like St. John's Wort

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop this medicine once my symptoms improve?

No, stopping early can allow the virus to become resistant; continue as prescribed by your doctor.

Can this medicine be taken during pregnancy?

It should only be used in pregnancy if clearly advised by a doctor after weighing benefits and risks.

Will this medicine cure HIV completely?

• No, it controls the virus but does not cure HIV infection; lifelong treatment is usually required.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.