Lopinavir Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Taking It

When you're taking lopinavir, a protease inhibitor used to treat HIV infection by blocking the virus from multiplying. Also known as Kaletra, it's often paired with ritonavir to boost its effectiveness and is a key part of antiretroviral therapy for many people living with HIV. But like all HIV meds, it doesn’t come without risks. People on lopinavir report stomach issues, nausea, and diarrhea more often than you’d expect — and those aren’t the only things to watch for.

It’s not just about feeling queasy. lopinavir, a protease inhibitor used to treat HIV infection by blocking the virus from multiplying. Also known as Kaletra, it's often paired with ritonavir to boost its effectiveness and is a key part of antiretroviral therapy for many people living with HIV. can raise your cholesterol and triglycerides, which increases long-term heart risk. Some users develop insulin resistance, making blood sugar harder to control — especially if you already have diabetes. And because it’s metabolized by the liver, mixing it with other drugs like statins, sedatives, or even some herbal supplements can lead to dangerous interactions. That’s why your doctor needs to know every pill, vitamin, or tea you’re taking.

It’s not all bad news. Many people tolerate lopinavir just fine, especially when they take it with food and stick to their schedule. But if you start feeling unusually tired, notice yellowing in your eyes or skin, or get severe abdominal pain, don’t wait — call your provider. These could be signs of liver trouble, something that shows up quietly but can get serious fast.

What you’ll find below isn’t just a list of side effects. It’s a collection of real-world experiences and medical insights about lopinavir and how it fits into the bigger picture of HIV treatment. You’ll see how it compares to other antiretrovirals, what patients actually struggle with, and how to manage the downsides without giving up the benefits. This isn’t theoretical — these are the things people are dealing with right now, and the answers are here.