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Kaletra
Lopinavir and Ritonavir · Tablet, Film Coated
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC DirectoryForms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Breast Cancer Resistance Protein Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 44 members |
| Cytochrome P450 1A2 Inducers [MoA] | MoA | All 27 members |
| Cytochrome P450 2B6 Inducers [MoA] | MoA | All 44 members |
| Cytochrome P450 2C19 Inducers [MoA] | MoA | All 37 members |
| Cytochrome P450 2C9 Inducers [MoA] | MoA | All 46 members |
| Cytochrome P450 2D6 Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 72 members |
| Cytochrome P450 3A Inducers [MoA] | MoA | All 37 members |
| Cytochrome P450 3A Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | 5 members — no class page |
| Cytochrome P450 3A Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 89 members |
| Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 118 members |
| HIV Protease Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 14 members |
| Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptide 1B1 Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 19 members |
| P-Glycoprotein Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 105 members |
| Protease Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | All 14 members |
| UDP Glucuronosyltransferases Inducers [MoA] | MoA | 4 members — no class page |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 021906-001 | KALETRA | TABLET | LOPINAVIR; RITONAVIR | Prescription | AB | RLD RS | |
| 021906-002 | KALETRA | TABLET | LOPINAVIR; RITONAVIR | Prescription | AB | RLD |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 55 | Labeling | Approved | July 23, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 54 | Labeling | Approved | October 21, 2020 | Standard |
| Supplement | 53 | Labeling | Approved | December 19, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 52 | Labeling | Approved | August 21, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 51 | Labeling | Approved | November 15, 2018 | Standard |
| Supplement | 50 | Labeling | Approved | October 13, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 49 | Labeling | Approved | June 15, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 46 | Labeling | Approved | November 22, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 47 | Labeling | Approved | September 15, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 45 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | December 2, 2015 | Priority |
| Supplement | 44 | Labeling | Approved | November 10, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 42 | Efficacy | Approved | June 26, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 43 | Labeling | Approved | March 27, 2015 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 40 | Efficacy | Approved | January 28, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 39 | Labeling | Approved | November 7, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 38 | Labeling | Approved | January 17, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 37 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | November 30, 2012 | Priority |
| Supplement | 36 | Labeling | Approved | May 16, 2012 | Standard |
| Supplement | 34 | Labeling | Approved | April 20, 2012 | Standard |
| Supplement | 35 | Labeling | Approved | February 17, 2012 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 33 | REMS | Approved | May 6, 2011 | N/A |
| Supplement | 32 | Labeling | Approved | February 24, 2011 | Standard |
| Supplement | 26 | Labeling | Approved | June 14, 2010 | Unknown |
| Supplement | 24 | Efficacy | Approved | April 27, 2010 | Standard |
| Supplement | 22 | Labeling | Approved | January 29, 2010 | Standard |
| Supplement | 17 | Efficacy | Approved | April 20, 2009 | Standard |
| Supplement | 14 | Labeling | Approved | April 6, 2009 | Standard |
| Supplement | 15 | Labeling | Approved | October 3, 2008 | Standard |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | June 20, 2008 | Standard |
| Supplement | 7 | Efficacy | Approved | November 9, 2007 | Priority |
| Supplement | 8 | Labeling | Approved | September 25, 2007 | Standard |
| Supplement | 5 | Labeling | Approved | June 29, 2007 | Standard |
| Supplement | 2 | Efficacy | Approved | April 20, 2007 | Unknown |
| Supplement | 4 | Labeling | Approved | March 2, 2007 | Standard |
| Supplement | 3 | Labeling | Approved | December 21, 2006 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | July 5, 2006 | N/A |
| Original application | 1 | Type 3 - New Dosage Form | Approved | October 28, 2005 | Priority |
Review documents
- 0 · Supplement · July 30, 2026
- 0 · Supplement · July 27, 2026
- 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2020
- 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2020
- 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2020
- 0 · Supplement · December 23, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · December 23, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · December 23, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · August 22, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · August 22, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · December 7, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · November 23, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · October 18, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · October 18, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · October 18, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · June 16, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · June 16, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · November 29, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · November 23, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · September 20, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · September 16, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · November 17, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · November 12, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · July 6, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · July 1, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · April 2, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · April 1, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · January 30, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · January 29, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · November 8, 2013
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260723). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingContraindications ( 4 ) 07/2026
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE KALETRA is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients 14 days and older. Limitations of Use: Genotypic or phenotypic testing and/or treatment history should guide the use of KALETRA. The number of baseline lopinavir resistance-associated substitutions affects the virologic response to KALETRA [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] . KALETRA is an HIV-1 protease inhibitor indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients (14 days and older). ( 1 )
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Tablets: May be taken with or without food, swallowed whole and not chewed, broken, or crushed. ( 2.1 ) Oral solution: must be taken with food. ( 2.1 ) KALETRA oral solution is not recommended for use with polyurethane feeding tubes due to potential incompatibility. Feeding tubes composed of silicone or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can be used. ( 2.2 ) Adults ( 2.3 ): Total recommended daily dosage is 800/200 mg given once or twice daily. KALETRA can be given as once daily or twice daily regimen. See Full Prescribing Information for details. KALETRA once daily dosing regimen is not recommended in: • Adult patients with three or more of the following lopinavir resistance-associated substitutions: L10F/I/R/V, K20M/N/R, L24I, L33F, M36I, I47V, G48V, I54L/T/V, V82A/C/F/S/T, and I84V. ( 12.4 ) • In combination with carbamazepine, phenobarbital, or phenytoin. ( 7.3 ) • In combination with efavirenz, nevirapine, or nelfinavir. ( 12.3 ) • In pregnant women. ( 2.5 , 8.1 , 12.3 ) Pediatric Patients (14 days and older) ( 2.4 ): KALETRA once daily dosing regimen is not recommended in pediatric patients. Twice daily dose is based on body weight or body surface area. Concomitant Therapy in Adults and Pediatric Patients: Dose adjustments of KALETRA may be needed when co-administering with efavirenz, nevirapine, or nelfinavir. ( 2.3 , 2.4 , 7.3 ) KALETRA oral solution should not be administered to neonates before a postmenstrual age (first day of the mother’s last menstrual period to birth plus the time elapsed after birth) of 42 weeks and a postnatal age of at least 14 days has been attained ( 2.4 , 5.2 ) Pregnancy ( 2.5 ): 400/100 mg twice daily in pregnant patients with no documented lopinavir-associated resistance substitutions. There are insufficient data to recommend a KALETRA dose for pregnant patients with any documented KALETRA-associated resistance substitutions. No dose adjustment of KALETRA is required for patients during the postpartum period. BSA 2.1 General Administration Recommendations KALETRA tablets may be taken with or without food. Swallow KALETRA tablets whole. Do not chew, break, or crush KALETRA tablets. KALETRA oral solution must be taken with food. 2.2 Administering Oral Solution by Feeding Tube Because KALETRA oral solution contains ethanol and propylene glycol, it is not recommended for use with polyurethane feeding tubes due to potential incompatibility. Feeding tubes that are compatible with ethanol and propylene glycol, such as silicone and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) feeding tubes, can be used for administration of KALETRA oral solution. Follow instructions for use of the feeding tube to administer the medicine. 2.3 Dosage Recommendations in Adults Give KALETRA in once daily or twice daily dosing regimen at dosages noted in Tables 1 and 2. KALETRA once daily dosing regimen is not recommended in: Adult patients with three or more of the following lopinavir resistance-associated substitutions: L10F/I/R/V, K20M/N/R, L24I, L33F, M36I, I47V, G48V, I54L/T/V, V82A/C/F/S/T, and I84V [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] . In combination with carbamazepine, phenobarbital, or phenytoin [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] . In combination with efavirenz, nevirapine, or nelfinavir [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . In pediatric patients younger than 18 years of age [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 )] . In pregnant women [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Table 1. Recommended Dosage in Adults - KALETRA Once Daily Regimen KALETRA Dosage Form Recommended Dosage 200 mg/50 mg Tablets 800 mg/200 mg (4 tablets) once daily 80 mg/20 mg per mL Oral Solution 800 mg/200 mg (10 mL) once daily Table 2. Recommended Dosage in Adults - KALETRA Twice Daily Regimen KALETRA Dosage Form Recommended Dosage 200 mg/50 mg Tablets 400 mg/100 mg (2 tablets) twice daily 80 mg/20 mg per mL Oral Solution 400 mg/100 mg (5 mL) twice …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Tablets: 200 mg lopinavir, 50 mg ritonavir: Red, film-coated, ovaloid, debossed with the code AL containing 200 mg lopinavir and 50 mg ritonavir. 100 mg lopinavir, 25 mg ritonavir: Pink, film-coated, ovaloid, debossed with the code AC containing 100 mg lopinavir and 25 mg ritonavir. Oral Solution: Light yellow to orange colored liquid containing 400 mg lopinavir and 100 mg ritonavir per 5 mL (80 mg lopinavir and 20 mg ritonavir per mL). Tablets: 200 mg lopinavir and 50 mg ritonavir ( 3 ) Tablets: 100 mg lopinavir and 25 mg ritonavir ( 3 ) Oral solution: 80 mg lopinavir and 20 mg ritonavir per milliliter ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS KALETRA is contraindicated in patients with previously demonstrated clinically significant hypersensitivity (e.g., toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, urticaria, angioedema) to any of its ingredients, including ritonavir. KALETRA is contraindicated with drugs that are highly dependent on CYP3A for clearance and for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening reactions [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Alpha 1- Adrenoreceptor Antagonist: alfuzosin Antianginal: ranolazine Antiarrhythmic: dronedarone Anti-gout: colchicine Antipsychotics: lurasidone, pimozide Ergot Derivatives: dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine GI Motility Agent: cisapride Hepatitis C direct acting antiviral: elbasvir/grazoprevir HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors: lovastatin, simvastatin Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) Inhibitor: lomitapide Non-opioid Analgesic (selective blocker of Nav1.8 sodium channels): suzetrigine PDE5 Inhibitor: sildenafil (Revatio ® ) when used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension Sedative/Hypnotics: triazolam, orally administered midazolam KALETRA is contraindicated with drugs that are potent CYP3A inducers where significantly reduced lopinavir plasma concentrations may be associated with the potential for loss of virologic response and possible resistance and cross-resistance [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Anticancer Agents: apalutamide Antimycobacterial: rifampin Herbal Products: St. John's Wort (hypericum perforatum) Hypersensitivity to KALETRA (e.g., toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, urticaria, angioedema) or any of its ingredients, including ritonavir. ( 4 ) Co-administration with drugs highly dependent on CYP3A for clearance and for which elevated plasma levels may result in serious and/or life-threatening events. ( 4 ) Co-administration with potent CYP3A inducers where significantly reduced lopinavir plasma concentrations may be associated with the potential for loss of virologic response and possible resistance and cross resistance. ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS The following have been observed in patients receiving KALETRA: The concomitant use of KALETRA and certain other drugs may result in known or potentially significant drug interactions. Consult the full prescribing information prior to and during treatment for potential drug interactions. ( 5.1 , 7.3 ) Toxicity in preterm neonates: KALETRA oral solution should not be used in preterm neonates in the immediate postnatal period because of possible toxicities. A safe and effective dose of KALETRA oral solution in this patient population has not been established. ( 2.4 , 5.2 ) Pancreatitis: Fatalities have occurred; suspend therapy as clinically appropriate. ( 5.3 ) Hepatotoxicity: Fatalities have occurred. Monitor liver function before and during therapy, especially in patients with underlying hepatic disease, including hepatitis B and hepatitis C, or marked transaminase elevations. ( 5.4 , 8.6 ) QT interval prolongation and isolated cases of torsade de pointes have been reported although causality could not be established. Avoid use in patients with congenital long QT syndrome, those with hypokalemia, and with other drugs that prolong the QT interval. ( 5.1 , 5.5 , 12.3 ) PR interval prolongation may occur in some patients. Cases of second and third degree heart block have been reported. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing conduction system disease, ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, underlying structural heart disease or when administering with other drugs that may prolong the PR interval. ( 5.1 , 5.6 , 12.3 ) Patients may develop new onset or exacerbations of diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia ( 5.7 ), immune reconstitution syndrome. ( 5.8 ), redistribution/accumulation of body fat. ( 5.10 ) Total cholesterol and triglycerides elevations. Monitor prior to therapy and periodically thereafter. ( 5.9 ) Hemophilia: Spontaneous bleeding may occur, and additional factor VIII may be required. ( 5.11 ) 5.1 Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions Due to Drug Interactions Initiation of KALETRA, a CYP3A inhibitor, in patients receiving medications metabolized by CYP3A or initiation of medications metabolized by CYP3A in patients already receiving KALETRA, may increase plasma concentrations of medications metabolized by CYP3A. Initiation of medications that inhibit or induce CYP3A may increase or decrease concentrations of KALETRA, respectively. These interactions may lead to: Clinically significant adverse reactions, potentially leading to severe, life-threatening, or fatal events from greater exposures of concomitant medications. Clinically significant adverse reactions from greater exposures of KALETRA. Loss of therapeutic effect of KALETRA and possible development of resistance. See Table 12 for steps to prevent or manage these possible and known significant drug interactions, including dosing recommendations [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] . Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during KALETRA therapy; review concomitant medications during KALETRA therapy, and monitor for the adverse reactions associated with the concomitant medications [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Drug Interactions ( 7 )] . 5.2 Toxicity in Preterm Neonates KALETRA oral solution contains the excipients ethanol, approximately 42% (v/v) and propylene glycol, approximately 15% (w/v). When administered concomitantly with propylene glycol, ethanol competitively inhibits the metabolism of propylene glycol, which may lead to elevated concentrations. Preterm neonates may be at increased risk of propylene glycol-associated adverse events due to diminished ability to metabolize propylene glycol, thereby leading to accumulation and potential adverse events. Postmarketing life-threatening cases of cardiac toxicity (including complete AV block, bradycardia, and cardiomyopathy), lactic acidosis, acute renal failure, CNS depression and respiratory complications leading to death have been reported, predominantly in preterm neona …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling. QT Interval Prolongation, PR Interval Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 , 5.6 )] Drug Interactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Commonly reported adverse reactions to KALETRA included diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact AbbVie Inc. at 1-800-633-9110 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reactions rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Adverse Reactions in Adults The safety of KALETRA has been investigated in about 2,600 patients in Phase II-IV clinical trials, of which about 700 have received a dose of 800/200 mg (6 capsules or 4 tablets) once daily. Along with nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), in some studies, KALETRA was used in combination with efavirenz or nevirapine. In clinical studies the incidence of diarrhea in patients treated with either KALETRA capsules or tablets was greater in those patients treated once daily than in those patients treated twice daily. Any grade of diarrhea was reported by at least half of patients taking once daily Kaletra capsules or tablets. At the time of treatment discontinuation, 4.2-6.3% of patients taking once daily Kaletra and 1.8-3.7% of those taking twice daily Kaletra reported ongoing diarrhea. Commonly reported adverse reactions to KALETRA included diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia. Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting may occur at the beginning of the treatment while hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia may occur later. The following have been identified as adverse reactions of moderate or severe intensity (Table 8): Table 8. Adverse Reactions of Moderate or Severe Intensity Occurring in at Least 0.1% of Adult Patients Receiving KALETRA in Combined Phase II/IV Studies (N=2,612) System Organ Class (SOC) and Adverse Reaction n % BLOOD AND LYMPHATIC SYSTEM DISORDERS anemia* 54 2.1 leukopenia and neutropenia* 44 1.7 lymphadenopathy* 35 1.3 CARDIAC DISORDERS atherosclerosis such as myocardial infarction* 10 0.4 atrioventricular block* 3 0.1 tricuspid valve incompetence* 3 0.1 EAR AND LABYRINTH DISORDERS vertigo* 7 0.3 tinnitus 6 0.2 ENDOCRINE DISORDERS hypogonadism* 16 0.8 1 EYE DISORDERS visual impairment* 8 0.3 GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS diarrhea* 510 19.5 nausea 269 10.3 vomiting* 177 6.8 abdominal pain (upper and lower)* 160 6.1 gastroenteritis and colitis* 66 2.5 dyspepsia 53 2.0 pancreatitis* 45 1.7 Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)* 40 1.5 hemorrhoids 39 1.5 flatulence 36 1.4 abdominal distension 34 1.3 constipation* 26 1.0 stomatitis and oral ulcers* 24 0.9 duodenitis and gastritis* 20 0.8 gastrointestinal hemorrhage including rectal hemorrhage* 13 0.5 dry mouth 9 0.3 gastrointestinal ulcer* 6 0.2 fecal incontinence 5 0.2 GENERAL DISORDERS AND ADMINISTRATION SITE CONDITIONS fatigue including asthenia* 198 7.6 HEPATOBILIARY DISORDERS hepatitis including AST, ALT, and GGT increases* 91 3.5 hepatomegaly 5 0.2 cholangitis 3 0.1 hepatic steatosis 3 0.1 IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS hypersensitivity including urticaria and angioedema* 70 2.7 immune reconstitution syndrome 3 0.1 INFECTIONS AND INFESTATIONS upper respiratory tract infection* 363 13.9 lower respiratory tract infection* 202 7.7 skin infections including cellulitis, folliculitis, and furuncle* 86 3.3 METABOLISM AND NUTRITION DISORDERS hypercholesterolemia* 192 7.4 hypertriglyceridemia* 161 6.2 weight decreased* 61 2.3 decreased appetite 52 2.0 blood glucose disorde …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Co-administration of KALETRA can alter the plasma concentrations of other drugs and other drugs may alter the plasma concentrations of lopinavir. The potential for drug-drug interactions must be considered prior to and during therapy. ( 4 , 5.1 , 7 , 12.3 ) 7.1 Potential for KALETRA to Affect Other Drugs Lopinavir/ritonavir is an inhibitor of CYP3A and may increase plasma concentrations of agents that are primarily metabolized by CYP3A. Agents that are extensively metabolized by CYP3A and have high first pass metabolism appear to be the most susceptible to large increases in AUC (> 3-fold) when co-administered with KALETRA. Thus, co-administration of KALETRA with drugs highly dependent on CYP3A for clearance and for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events is contraindicated. Co-administration with other CYP3A substrates may require a dose adjustment or additional monitoring as shown in Table 12. Additionally, KALETRA induces glucuronidation. Published data suggest that lopinavir is an inhibitor of OATP1B1. These examples are a guide and not considered a comprehensive list of all possible drugs that may interact with lopinavir/ritonavir. The healthcare provider should consult appropriate references for comprehensive information. 7.2 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect Lopinavir Lopinavir/ritonavir is a CYP3A substrate; therefore, drugs that induce CYP3A may decrease lopinavir plasma concentrations and reduce KALETRA’s therapeutic effect. Although not observed in the KALETRA/ketoconazole drug interaction study, co-administration of KALETRA and other drugs that inhibit CYP3A may increase lopinavir plasma concentrations. 7.3 Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions Table 12 provides a listing of established or potentially clinically significant drug interactions. Alteration in dose or regimen may be recommended based on drug interaction studies or predicted interaction [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] for magnitude of interaction. Table 12. Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions Concomitant Drug Class: Drug Name Effect on Concentration of Lopinavir or Concomitant Drug Clinical Comments HIV-1 Antiviral Agents HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor: fosamprenavir/ritonavir ↓ amprenavir ↓ lopinavir An increased rate of adverse reactions has been observed with co-administration of these medications. Appropriate doses of the combinations with respect to safety and efficacy have not been established. HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor: indinavir* ↑ indinavir Decrease indinavir dose to 600 mg twice daily, when co-administered with KALETRA 400/100 mg twice daily. KALETRA once daily has not been studied in combination with indinavir. HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor: nelfinavir* ↑ nelfinavir ↑ M8 metabolite of nelfinavir ↓ lopinavir KALETRA once daily in combination with nelfinavir is not recommended [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )] . HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor: ritonavir* ↑ lopinavir Appropriate doses of additional ritonavir in combination with KALETRA with respect to safety and efficacy have not been established. HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor: saquinavir ↑ saquinavir The saquinavir dose is 1000 mg twice daily, when co-administered with KALETRA 400/100 mg twice daily. KALETRA once daily has not been studied in combination with saquinavir. HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor: tipranavir* ↓ lopinavir Co-administration with tipranavir (500 mg twice daily) and ritonavir (200 mg twice daily) is not recommended. HIV CCR5 – Antagonist: maraviroc* ↑ maraviroc When co-administered, patients should receive 150 mg twice daily of maraviroc. For further details see complete prescribing information for maraviroc. Non-nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors: efavirenz*, nevirapine* ↓ lopinavir Increase the dose of KALETRA tablets to 500/125 mg when KALETRA tablet is co-administered with efavirenz or nevirapine …
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation: Breastfeeding not recommended. ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to KALETRA during pregnancy. Physicians are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry at 1-800-258-4263. Risk Summary Available data from the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry show no difference in the risk of overall major birth defects compared to the background rate for major birth defects of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) (see Data) . The estimated background rate of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies in the U.S. general population is 15-20%. The background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Methodological limitations of the APR include the use of MACDP as the external comparator group. The MACDP population is not disease-specific, evaluates women and infants from a limited geographic area, and does not include outcomes for births that occurred at 6 months of age was demonstrated in a clinical trial in 100 patients. The clinical trial was an open-label, multicenter trial evaluating the pharmacokinetic profile, tolerability, safety, and efficacy of KALETRA oral solution containing lopinavir 80 mg/mL and ritonavir 20 mg/mL in 100 antiretroviral naïve and experienced pediatric patients ages 6 months to 12 years. Dose selection for patients 6 months to 12 years of age was based on the following results. The 230/57.5 mg/m 2 oral solution twice daily regimen without nevirapine and the 300/75 mg/m 2 oral solution twice daily regimen with nevirapine provided lopinavir plasma concentrations similar to those obtained in adult patients receiving the 400/100 mg twice daily regimen (without nevirapine) [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ), Clinical Studies ( 14.4 )] . A prospective multicenter, open-label trial evaluated the pharmacokinetic profile, tolerability, safety and efficacy of high-dose KALETRA with or without concurrent NNRTI therapy (Group 1: 400/100 mg/m 2 twice daily + ≥ 2 NRTIs; Group 2: 480/120 mg/m 2 twice daily + ≥ 1 NRTI + 1 NNRTI) in 26 children and adolescents ≥ 2 years to < 18 years of age who had failed prior therapy. Patients also had saquinavir mesylate added to their regimen. This strategy was intended to assess whether higher than approved doses of KALETRA could overcome protease inhibitor cross-resistance. High doses of KALETRA exhibited a safety profile similar to those observed in previous trials; changes in HIV-1 RNA were less than anticipated; three patients had HIV-1 RNA <400 copies/mL at Week 48. CD4+ cell count increases were noted in the eight patients who remained on treatment for 48 weeks [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . A prospective multicenter, randomized, open-label study evaluated the efficacy and safety of twice-daily versus once-daily dosing of KALETRA tablets dosed by weight as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in virologically suppressed HIV-1 infected children (n=173). Children were eligible when they were aged < 18 years, ≥ 15 kg in weight, receiving cART that included KALETRA, HIV-1 ribonucleic acid (RNA) < 50 copies/mL for at least 24 weeks and able to swallow tablets. At week 24, efficacy (defined as the proportion of subjects with plasma HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies per mL) was significantly higher in subjects receiving twice daily dosing compared to subjects receiving once daily dosing. The safety profile was similar between the two treatment arms although there was a greater incidence of diarrhea in the once daily treated subjects. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of KALETRA did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, appropriate …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action KALETRA is a fixed-dose combination of HIV-1 antiviral drugs lopinavir [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] and ritonavir. As co-formulated in KALETRA, ritonavir inhibits the CYP3A-mediated metabolism of lopinavir, thereby providing increased plasma levels of lopinavir.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION KALETRA is a co-formulation of lopinavir and ritonavir. Lopinavir is an inhibitor of the HIV-1 protease. As co-formulated in KALETRA, ritonavir inhibits the CYP3A-mediated metabolism of lopinavir, thereby providing increased plasma levels of lopinavir. Lopinavir is chemically designated as [1 S -[1 R *,( R *), 3 R *, 4 R *]]- N -[4-[[(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)acetyl]amino]-3-hydroxy-5-phenyl-1-(phenylmethyl)pentyl]tetrahydro-alpha-(1-methylethyl)-2-oxo-1(2 H )-pyrimidineacetamide. Its molecular formula is C 37 H 48 N 4 O 5 , and its molecular weight is 628.80. Lopinavir is a white to light tan powder. It is freely soluble in methanol and ethanol, soluble in isopropanol and practically insoluble in water. Lopinavir has the following structural formula: Ritonavir is chemically designated as 10-hydroxy-2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)-1- [2-(1-methylethyl)-4-thiazolyl]-3,6-dioxo-8,11-bis(phenylmethyl)-2,4,7,12-tetraazatridecan-13-oic acid, 5-thiazolylmethyl ester, [5 S -(5 R *,8 R *,10 R *,11 R *)]. Its molecular formula is C 37 H 48 N 6 O 5 S 2 , and its molecular weight is 720.95. Ritonavir is a white to light tan powder. It is freely soluble in methanol and ethanol, soluble in isopropanol and practically insoluble in water. Ritonavir has the following structural formula: KALETRA tablets are available for oral administration in two strengths: Red tablets containing 200 mg of lopinavir and 50 mg of ritonavir Pink tablets containing 100 mg of lopinavir and 25 mg of ritonavir. The red, 200 mg lopinavir and 50 mg ritonavir, tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, copovidone, sodium stearyl fumarate and sorbitan monolaurate. The following are the ingredients in the film coating: colloidal silicon dioxide, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol 400, polyethylene glycol 3350, polysorbate 80, talc, titanium dioxide, and red ferric oxide E172. The pink, 100 mg lopinavir and 25 mg ritonavir, tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, copovidone, sodium stearyl fumarate, and sorbitan monolaurate. The following are the ingredients in the film coating: polyethylene glycol 3350, polyvinyl alcohol, talc, titanium dioxide, and red ferric oxide E172. KALETRA oral solution is available for oral administration as 80 mg lopinavir and 20 mg ritonavir per milliliter with the following inactive ingredients: acesulfame potassium, artificial cotton candy flavor, citric acid, ethanol, glycerin, high fructose corn syrup, Magnasweet-110 flavor, menthol, natural & artificial vanilla flavor, peppermint oil, polyoxyl 40 hydrogenated castor oil, povidone, propylene glycol, saccharin sodium, sodium chloride, sodium citrate, and water. KALETRA oral solution contains approximately 42% (v/v) ethanol and approximately 15% (w/v) propylene glycol. Lopinavir has the following structural formula: Ritonavir has the following structural formula:
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE Overdoses with KALETRA oral solution have been reported. One of these reports described fatal cardiogenic shock in a 2.1 kg infant who received a single dose of 6.5 mL of KALETRA oral solution (520 mg lopinavir, approximately 10-fold above the recommended lopinavir dose) nine days prior. The following events have been reported in association with unintended overdoses in preterm neonates: complete AV block, cardiomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and acute renal failure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Healthcare professionals should be aware that KALETRA oral solution is highly concentrated and therefore, should pay special attention to accurate calculation of the dose of KALETRA, transcription of the medication order, dispensing information and dosing instructions to minimize the risk for medication errors and overdose. This is especially important for infants and young children. KALETRA oral solution contains approximately 42% (v/v) ethanol and approximately 15% (w/v) propylene glycol. Ingestion of the product over the recommended dose by an infant or a young child could result in significant toxicity and could potentially be lethal. Human experience of acute overdosage with KALETRA is limited. Treatment of overdose with KALETRA should consist of general supportive measures including monitoring of vital signs and observation of the clinical status of the patient. There is no specific antidote for overdose with KALETRA. If indicated, elimination of unabsorbed drug should be achieved by gastric lavage. Administration of activated charcoal may also be used to aid in removal of unabsorbed drug. Since lopinavir is highly protein bound, dialysis is unlikely to be beneficial in significant removal of the drug. However, dialysis can remove both ethanol and propylene glycol in the case of overdose with KALETRA oral solution.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING KALETRA ® (lopinavir and ritonavir) tablets and oral solution are available in the following strengths and package sizes: Formulation and strength Available Presentations Bottle size and NDC codes Tablets: 200 mg lopinavir/ 50 mg ritonavir Red film-coated ovaloid tablets debossed with the code AL Bottles of 120 tablets (NDC 0074-4014-12) Tablets: 100 mg lopinavir and 25 mg ritonavir Pink film-coated ovaloid tablets debossed with the code AC Bottles of 60 tablets (NDC 0074-3008-60) Oral Solution: 80 mg lopinavir and 20 mg ritonavir per mL Light yellow to orange colored liquid supplied in amber-colored multiple-dose bottles containing 400 mg lopinavir and 100 mg ritonavir per 5 mL packaged with a marked dosing cup 160 mL bottle (NDC 0074-3956-46) Recommended Storage: Tablets Store KALETRA tablets at 20°- 25°C (68°- 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°- 30°C (59°- 86°F) [see USP controlled room temperature]. Dispense in original container or USP equivalent tight container. For patient use: exposure of this product to high humidity outside the original container or USP equivalent tight container for longer than 2 weeks is not recommended. Oral Solution Store KALETRA oral solution at 2°- 8°C (36°- 46°F) until dispensed. Avoid exposure to excessive heat. For patient use: refrigerated KALETRA oral solution remains stable until the expiration date printed on the label. If stored at room temperature up to 25°C (77°F), oral solution should be used within 2 months.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: RITONAVIR. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Shortages
Source: FDA Drug Shortages| Status | Availability | Company | Presentation | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| To Be Discontinued | AbbVie Inc. | Kaletra, Tablet, 200 mg; 50 mg (NDC 0074-4014-12) | July 24, 2026 | |
| To Be Discontinued | AbbVie Inc. | Kaletra, Tablet, 100 mg; 25 mg (NDC 0074-3008-60) | July 24, 2026 | |
| To Be Discontinued | AbbVie Inc. | Kaletra, Oral Solution, 80 mg/1 mL; 20 mg/1 mL (NDC 0074-3956-46) | July 24, 2026 |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0074-3008-60 | 0074-3008 | AbbVie Inc. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0074-3008-60) | June 14, 2024 |
| 0074-4014-12 | 0074-4014 | AbbVie Inc. | 120 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0074-4014-12) | February 15, 2024 |
| 0074-3008 | 0074-3008 | AbbVie Inc. | — | April 8, 2020 |
| 0074-4014 | 0074-4014 | AbbVie Inc. | — | April 8, 2020 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Drug Shortages | FDA | Supply availability |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.