Norvir

Tobacco use decreases the effects of Norvir. The effects of antacids taken with Norvir have not been studied.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Norvir during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.

To avoid transmitting HIV to a newborn baby, HIV-positive women should not breastfeed.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

The recommended dose of Norvir is 600 milligrams twice a day with food.

Should you experience nausea when first starting on Norvir, your doctor may lower your starting dosage to 300 milligrams twice a day for 1 day, 400 milligrams twice a day for 2 days, 500 milligrams twice a day for 1 day, and then 600 milligrams twice a day thereafter.

Your doctor may suggest taking Norvir alone at first and adding a second drug later in the first 2 weeks of therapy. This approach may cause fewer stomach problems.

If you are taking Norvir along with saquinavir, the dosage of both drugs may be reduced to 400 milligrams twice daily.

CHILDREN AGE 2 TO 16 YEARS

The dosage of Norvir in children is based on the child's size, and should not exceed 600 milligrams twice a day. Use of a special spoon or dosing syringe with measurements on it will help ensure that the child receives the proper dose.

Overdosage

Information on acute overdose with Norvir is limited. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

• Symptoms of Norvir overdose may include:
  Numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" sensation, particularly in the arms and legs

Because Norvir oral solution is 43 percent alcohol, severe alcohol toxicity can follow its ingestion by a young child.