Ritonavir approved in Europe as pharmacokinetic enhancer for use with other antiretrovirals

Abbott Laboratories announced 2nd July that the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products (EMEA) has approved a variation in indication for ritonavir (Norvir).

The newly approved indication permits the usage of ritonavir with other antiretroviral agents, including other protease inhibitors. This brings the licensed indication into line with the widespread current off-label use of this agent as a PK enhancer in regimens including dual (and triple) PI combinations. Such enhanced or boosted protease inhibitor combinations improve convenience by reducing dosing frequency and may facilitate long-term adherence.