Ritonavir: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Ritonavir is used in HIV treatment and to boost other antivirals. It belongs to the HIV & hepatitis antiviral group. These control HIV or viral hepatitis. They are taken long-term (or as a full course) under specialist care.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	HIV & hepatitis antiviral
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Boosting other HIV medicines (protease inhibitors) so they work better
Part of some hepatitis C and COVID-19 antiviral combinations
Rarely used as the main HIV drug at higher doses

Common brand names

India: Ritomune, Ritovir
Worldwide: Norvir

Common side effects

Nausea or diarrhoea
Taste changes
Tingling around the mouth
Raised cholesterol

Before taking it — precautions

It interacts with a very large number of medicines; tell every doctor and pharmacist you take it
Some statins, sedatives and heart medicines must be avoided
Tell the doctor about liver disease or diabetes

When to see a doctor urgently

Severe tummy pain with vomiting (urgent)
Yellow skin or eyes
Severe rash or swelling (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of ritonavir depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Why is ritonavir added to other medicines?

It slows the liver's breakdown of certain antivirals, keeping their levels high enough to work.

Why so many interactions?

The same effect that boosts antivirals also raises levels of many other drugs, which can be dangerous.

Is it the same ritonavir in COVID-19 tablets?

Yes, it is used there to boost nirmatrelvir, so the same interaction warnings apply.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.