Ritonavir (Norvir) FACT SHEET Summary Published Ritonavir is a type of anti-HIV drug called a protease inhibitor. 2016 The most common side effects of ritonavir can include unexpected tiredness or lack of energy, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and changes in your sense of taste. Ritonavir is usually taken to boost levels of a second protease inhibitor. Ritonavir CONTACT US dosage varies depending on the second protease inhibitor. by telephone 1-800-263-1638 What is ritonavir? 416-203-7122 Ritonavir, sold under the brand name Norvir, is a type of anti-HIV drug by fax (antiretroviral) called a protease inhibitor (PI). Ritonavir is used in combination 416-203-8284 with other anti-HIV drugs to treat (but not cure) HIV. by e-mail How does ritonavir work?
[email protected] Ritonavir can work in two different ways in managing HIV infection. It can be by mail used as a protease inhibitor or it can be used as a drug ‘booster.’ Ritonavir 555 Richmond Street West may also be useful in the management of other types of infection. Suite 505, Box 1104 Toronto ON M5V 3B1 1. Ritonavir as a protease inhibitor When HIV infects a cell, it takes control of that cell. HIV then forces the cell to make many more copies of the virus. To make these copies, the cell uses proteins called enzymes. When the activity of these enzymes is reduced the production of HIV slows. Ritonavir belongs to a group or class of drugs called protease inhibitors. This drug interferes with an enzyme called protease, which is used by HIV-infected cells to make new viruses.