Plasma concentration and safety of lopinavir/ritonavir in patients with Covid-19: a short communication

ABSTRACT Background Lopinavir/ritonavir has been proposed as off-label treatment for Covid-19, although efficacy have not been proven. It has previously been shown that lopinavir plasma concentration is dramatically increased in inflammatory settings. As Covid-19 may be associated with major inflammation, assessing lopinavir plasma concentration and its safety in Covid-19 patients is essential. Methods Real-world Covid-19 experience based on a retrospective study. Results Of 31 patients treated by lopinavir/ritonavir for Covid-19, we observed very high lopinavir plasma concentrations, increased of 4.6-fold (IQR, 3.6-6.2) with regards to average plasma concentrations in HIV. All except one patient were above the upper limit of the concentration ranges of HIV treatment. About one over four to five patients prematurely stopped treatment mainly secondary an adverse drug reaction related to hepatic or gastrointestinal disorders. Conclusion Lopinavir plasma concentrations in patients with moderate to severe Covid-19 were higher than expected, associated with the occurrence of hepatic or gastrointestinal adverse drug reactions. However, owing that high plasma concentration may be required for in vivo antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 as suggested by previous studies, it appears that, in the absence of adverse drug reaction, lopinavir dosage should not be reduced. Cautious is necessary as off-label use can be associated with a new drug safety profile.