A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON PHARMACOLOGICAL, PHARMACEUTICAL AND ANALYTICAL PROFILE OF RITONAVIR
S. K. Rafath Sulthana, M. Lakshmikanth, K. Sushma, B. Baji, P. Jahanavi Devi, P. Siva Krishna*, M. M. Eswarudu and P. Srinivasa Babu
ABSTRACT
The present study interplay between ritonavir's analytical, pharmacological, and pharmaceutical attributes, emphasizing its pivotal role in combating HIV/AIDS and its ongoing evolution in the realm of antiretroviral therapy. Ritonavir's analytical properties encompass its chemical structure, molecular weight, and spectral characteristics, which have been extensively studied using various analytical techniques, including spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry. These methods have contributed significantly to its identification, quantification, and purity determination, ensuring reliable pharmaceutical formulations. Ritonavir is pharmacologically a protease inhibitor, it exhibits potent antiviral activity by inhibiting HIV-1 protease, a crucial enzyme for viral replication. Its pharmacokinetic profile involves rapid absorption, extensive metabolism via the cytochrome P450 system, and significant protein binding, influencing its bioavailability and half-life. Ritonavir's role as a booster for other antiretroviral drugs has revolutionized combination therapy, enhancing their efficacy by inhibiting drug-metabolizing enzymes. Pharmaceutical formulations, ritonavir presents challenges due to its low aqueous solubility and susceptibility to degradation. Formulation strategies involving solid dispersion, lipid-based formulations, and nanotechnology have been explored to enhance its solubility, stability, and overall bioavailability. Additionally, various dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, and oral solutions, have been developed to cater to different patient populations.
Keywords: Ritonavir, Cytochrome P450 system, HIV-1 protease, Bioavailability, High-performance liquid chromatography, Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.
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