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Atazanavir and Ritonavir - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Atazanavir and Ritonavir

Generic Name : Atazanavir and Ritonavir
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Atazanavir and Ritonavir are provided here.

Pronunciation : (at a za na' veer) and (ri toe' na veer)

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Atazanavir and Ritonavir, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


Trade Names/Brand Names of Atazanavir and Ritonavir

India :


ATAZOR-R, ANZAVIR-R, VIRATAZ-R, Qvir KIT

International :


Viralnich, ATAZOTECH

Overview of Atazanavir and Ritonavir

Atazanavir and Ritonavir are antiretroviral drugs prescribed for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection. These drugs work as protease inhibitors in HIV-infected individuals, who are at risk of various diseases and infections owing to their weakened immune systems.

Why is Atazanavir and Ritonavir Prescribed? (Indications)

Atazanavir is a protease inhibitor, and its activity gets amplified when taken in combination with activity enhancers such as Ritonavir.

This combination medication works to prevent HIV complications.

It hinders the growth of HIV cells, preventing the progression of the infection in adults and children aged above 6 years.
 

When should Atazanavir and Ritonavir not be taken? (Contraindications)

It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients.

Do not take this medication if you suffer from end-stage kidney disease.

Contraindicated in patients with a history of liver disease, diabetes, hemophilia, or a hepatitis B or C infection.

Contraindicated in children less than 3 months.

How should Atazanavir and Ritonavir be taken?

  • This medication is available in the form of tablets.

  • Take the medication with food or as advised by your doctor.

  • Do not crush or break the tablets; swallow them as a whole.

  • While taking Antacids or Didanosine, make sure to take Atazanavir and Ritonavir tablets 2 hours before or 1 hour after taking this medication.

  • Make sure to take these tablets every day at a fixed time.

Missed a Dose?

If you miss a dose, it is better to skip and take the next dose correctly. Do not double the dose.

What are the warnings and precautions for Atazanavir and Ritonavir?

#8226;If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, avoid taking Atazanavir and Ritonavir, as they may harm the newborn and fetus.

Do not breastfeed while you are infected with the HIV virus, as it may increase the transmission of HIV to your baby via breast milk.

Cardiac conduction abnormalities:

This medication may cause changes in the electrocardiogram.

Reach out to your healthcare provider if you notice symptoms such as loss of consciousness and an abnormal heart rate.

Rashes:

This combination may cause mild to severe rashes.

Discontinue this medication when you develop a severe rash such as toxic skin eruption, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, along with other symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, fatigue and hepatitis.

Hyperbilirubinemia:

An increase in bilirubin levels may be seen with yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Lipid elevation:

May increase your lipid and triglyceride levels.

Diabetes mellitus:

It may lead to a diabetes mellitus condition or worsen your existing diabetes mellitus condition.

Immune reconstitution syndrome:

This combination medication may lead to immune reconstitution syndrome.

What are the side effects of Atazanavir and Ritonavir?

Some general side effects of Atazanavir and Ritonavir are:
  General: Headache, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia
  Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
  Sensation: Tingling, numbness in hands, mouth, lips and feet
  Skin: Rash, flushing
  Joint: Joint pain

What are the other precautions for Atazanavir and Ritonavir?

In the case of an overdose, contact your nearest health center right away.

What are the Drug Interactions of Atazanavir and Ritonavir?

  • Atazanavir and Ritonavir interact with various medications; some interactions can be serious and life-threatening.

  • It is important to discuss your current and previous medication schedule with your doctor to avoid potential side effects.

  • Atazanavir and Ritonavir may react with some antacids.

  • It may interact with medications for erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension.

  • This medication may react with herbal products such as St. John’s wort.

What are the storage conditions for Atazanavir and Ritonavir?

Store the medication as per the instructions on the label.
Ensure the medicines are up-to-date to avoid taking expired medications.
Keep them out of the reach of children and pets.
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