Uses of Atazanavir+Ritonavir

The combination of Atazanavir + Ritonavir is used to treat HIV infection. 

Therapeutic Category

Atazanavir: Anti-viral agents

Ritonavir: Anti-viral agents

How Atazanavir+Ritonavir works

Both Atazanavir and Ritonavir are anti-viral agents. They control the multiplication of virus within the body, by blocking the actions of certain viral enzymes (HIV-protease) that is required for their growth and survival. As a result, they reduce the number of HIV cells present within the body and controls the infection.

Common side effects of Atazanavir+Ritonavir

• headache, dizziness
• nausea, vomiting
• diarrhea, upper stomach pain, indigestion, wind
• loss of appetite or increased appetite
• weight loss or weight gain
• mouth ulcers
• flushing
• cough, throat pain, fever
• tingling or numbness of body parts
• weakness, tiredness
• bad taste or changes in taste
• joint pain, back pain, muscle pain
• skin rash, itching, redness, swelling
• lack of sleep, anxiety, confusion
• increase in blood cholesterol levels
• increased urination
• fits
• thirst (dehydration)
• abnormally heavy periods
• swelling of body parts
• blurred vision
• cold hands and feet
• acne

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• signs of kidney stones (bloody urine, pain at the sides of the abdomen, painful urination) or gall stones causing pain in the right side of the stomach
• opportunistic infections or flaring up of old infections
• muscle weakness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremor, hyperactivity, general weakness
• signs of osteonecrosis (death of bone cells causing joint stiffness, pain in the hip, knee or shoulder and difficulty in moving)
• inflammation of pancreas causing severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting
• persistent diarrhea and vomiting
• severe muscle weakness, tenderness and pain

Health Tips for Atazanavir+Ritonavir

• Take Atazanavir + Ritonavir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not modify the dosage or stop taking them without consulting your healthcare provider
• Along with the treatment, it is important for you to follow certain measures to prevent the spread of infections to the other people (such as avoid having unprotected sexual intercourse or sharing needles or personal items like toothbrush, razors etc with other people)
• Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Some medications may interfere with the effectiveness of Atazanavir + Ritonavir or increase the risk of side effects
• Your healthcare provider may order regular blood tests to monitor your liver function, kidney function, and viral load. These tests help ensure that the medications are working effectively and not causing any harm
• It is crucial to take your medication as prescribed to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains of the virus. Missing doses or not following the prescribed regimen can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment
• Inform your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Atazanavir + Ritonavir is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women