[Lopinavir/ritonavir monotherapy. Possible indications]

Abstract

Monotherapy with LPV/r maintains blocked viral replication when used as a simplification strategy from antiretroviral therapy with a boosted protease inhibitor and two nucleoside analogs in patients with an undetectable viral load for at least 6 months. This simplification strategy can be recommended to patients in these circumstances and who are able to maintain near perfect adherence. As recommended by the GESIDA guidelines, LPV/r monotherapy could be offered to patients with undetectable viral loads but who show symptoms or laboratory abnormalities attributable to nucleoside analog toxicity, or co-morbidities such as liver disease or nephropathy; LPV/r monotherapy could also be offered to patients who simply wish to take a lower number of pills. This strategy reduces treatment toxicity and costs, without jeopardizing the patient's future.