Ritonavir: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side Effects

Chemical Formula:

• C37H48N6O5S2

Structure of Ritonavir

Mechanism of Action:

• Ritonavir is a protease inhibitor (PI) that works against HIV. Similar to indinavir, ritonavir inhibits the viral protease enzyme, preventing the maturation of new viral particles and reducing viral replication.

• Additionally, ritonavir is a potent inhibitor of the CYP3A4 enzyme, which is involved in the metabolism of many drugs.

• Due to this property, ritonavir is often used at low doses in combination with other PIs to boost their plasma concentrations, enhancing their efficacy.

Uses:

• Ritonavir is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for the treatment of HIV infection.

• It is often used as a pharmacokinetic enhancer (booster) for other PIs.

Side Effects:

Some common side effects of ritonavir include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

Serious side effects may include:

• Hepatotoxicity

• Pancreatitis

• Hyperglycemia

• Lipodystrophy

• QT interval prolongation