When you take ritonavir, a protease inhibitor used to treat HIV by blocking the virus’s ability to multiply. Also known as Norvir, it’s often paired with other antivirals to boost their effectiveness. But while it keeps HIV in check, it doesn’t come without trade-offs—especially in your mouth.
Many people on ritonavir notice changes in their oral health: dry mouth, swollen gums, or even unusual taste changes. These aren’t just minor annoyances. Dry mouth reduces saliva, which normally washes away food and bacteria. Less saliva means more cavities, more gum disease, and a higher chance of fungal infections like oral thrush. Studies show that up to 40% of HIV patients on ritonavir report dental issues severe enough to need treatment. And it’s not just about the drug itself—ritonavir often interacts with other meds, like statins or antidepressants, which can make dry mouth worse. If you’re on this medication, your oral health isn’t just a side note—it’s part of your treatment plan.
It’s not just about brushing harder. People taking ritonavir need to be proactive. Regular dental visits every 3–6 months aren’t optional—they’re critical. Dentists need to know you’re on antiretrovirals so they can watch for early signs of bone loss or gum inflammation. Simple steps like sipping water through the day, chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol, and avoiding sugary snacks can make a real difference. Some patients even need prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste or antimicrobial rinses. And if you notice white patches on your tongue or persistent soreness, don’t wait. That could be oral thrush, which responds quickly to antifungal treatment if caught early.
What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of articles. It’s a practical guide to how drugs like ritonavir affect your body beyond the bloodstream. You’ll see how secnidazole treats oral infections, how bisacodyl can cause cramps (yes, even in the gut), and how other HIV meds stack up against each other. These aren’t random picks—they’re the real-world issues you face when managing long-term HIV treatment. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or just trying to understand the connection between meds and mouth health, what follows is what actually matters.
Ritonavir can cause dry mouth, thrush, and gum problems. Learn practical steps to protect your teeth and gums while taking this HIV medication, including daily habits, what to avoid, and when to see your dentist.
