lopinavir + ritonavir + hypoxis obtusa

This is a combination product containing two antiretroviral drugs, lopinavir and ritonavir, both of which are HIV-1 protease inhibitors, plus Hypoxis obtusa, a plant extract sometimes used in traditional medicine. Lopinavir and ritonavir are co-formulated to treat HIV infection; ritonavir acts as a pharmacokinetic enhancer by inhibiting the metabolism of lopinavir via CYP3A4 inhibition, thereby increasing its plasma concentration and effectiveness. Both drugs block the activity of the HIV-1 protease enzyme required for viral replication. Hypoxis obtusa (commonly known as African potato) is not an approved pharmaceutical agent but has been used in some regions as an herbal supplement with purported immunomodulatory or antioxidant effects; however, its efficacy and safety profile in combination with antiretrovirals is not established or supported by regulatory agencies. There are significant concerns about drug interactions between Hypoxis species extracts and antiretroviral therapy due to potential induction or inhibition of cytochrome P450 enzymes.