This medicine is taken by mouth to treat HIV infection. It can be taken alone or in combination with other medicines. This medicine is not a cure for HIV infection. You may continue to get illnesses associated with advanced HIV infection, including other infections. There is no evidence that this medicine will reduce the risk of spreading HIV through sexual contact or blood contamination.

Proper Use

Take this medicine every day as prescribed. Do not take more or less of this medicine than directed by your doctor. Do not stop taking this medicine unless your doctor agrees. If you miss a dose, take the next dose as soon as possible, but do not take double doses. The liquid form of this medicine can be mixed with chocolate milk, Ensure, or Advera to improve the taste. If possible, take this medicine with food (meals).

Please Note

Store this medicine (capsules or liquid) in the refrigerator. Keep the caps tightly closed, and avoid excessive heat.

Since this medicine can interact with many other medicines, be sure to tell the doctor who prescribed this medicine about all other medicines you are taking or receiving by injection, including prescription and nonprescription medicines.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding an infant. The US Public Health Service recommends that mothers who have HIV or AIDS should not breast-feed their babies, especially babies who do not have HIV.

Possible Side Effects

Serious (report these to your doctor): Severe weakness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain.

Other: Mild weakness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Possible Drug Interactions

This medicine can interact with many medicines, including antidepressants, corticosteroids, beta blockers, sedatives, immunosuppressants, and medicines used to treat heart problems, cancer, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and infections. Be sure the doctor who prescribed this medicine knows about all other medicines you are taking or receiving by injection, including prescription and nonprescription medicines.

Be sure that you tell all doctors who treat you about all medicines you are taking, including nonprescription products.

This educational document includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Other Names For This Medication:

Norvir (ritonavir, oral); ritonavir, oral