Drug Interactions between bexarotene and lopinavir / ritonavir

Using bexarotene together with ritonavir may increase the risk of pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor if you experience potential symptoms of pancreatitis such as persistent nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, and upper abdominal pain, especially that which is made worse after eating or radiates to the back. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Bexarotene may reduce the blood levels of lopinavir, which may make the medication less effective in treating HIV infection. Using bexarotene with lopinavir may also increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening, although it is a relatively rare side effect. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations during treatment with these medications, whether together or alone. Contact your doctor if your condition worsens or you develop new infections during treatment with these medications. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.