ritonavir and Tendinopathy

A multitude of rheumatologic manifestations have been associated with HIV infection and protease inhibitors use. We describe two cases that display a temporal relationship between initiating Kaletra and developing Achilles tendinopathy. Immediate and dramatic resolution of symptoms occurred on switching from Kaletra to an alternative agent. Clinicians may want to consider a trial of an alternative agent in individuals on Kaletra who experience Achilles tendinopathy. Adverse events must be formally reported so that our understanding of antiretrovirals may continually evolve and aid decisions about antiretroviral prescribing.

Topics: Achilles Tendon; Adult; CD4 Lymphocyte Count; Drug Combinations; HIV Infections; HIV Protease Inhibitors; Humans; Lopinavir; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Ritonavir; Tendinopathy; Treatment Outcome