I have been on Retrovir and Emtriva since 2003. Over a year ago, I added Isentress. My VL is less than 200 and my T-cells are normal (always have been +900).

My problem is that my stomach has become extremely extended and I have gained a lot of weight in my neck as well. The extra weight in my stomach appears to be in the higher area, and my stomach feels "hard".

Is this a side effect of my HIV meds? I have been dieting, but I can barely eat because my stomach is so bloated and sensitive. The lower part of my stomach is not as extended as the upper part. I don't know what to do, and I am extremely depressed because of the way I look.

There hasn't been much data published on fat distribution problems among persons taking raltegravir + AZT + FTC (emtriva). If you have normal renal function you may want to discuss switching the AZT to tenofovir which may be more fat friendly than the AZT. Evaluation for fat distribution by DEXA or CT scan may be worthwhile to establish the degree/location of fat problems and what may be treatment options for you. A good GI work up to evaluate your bloating is recommended. I don't have much confidence that an alternative regimen to raltegravir + tenofovir + FTC would decrease the fat increase you describe. Exercise and diet are still important life style factors to blunt/minimize fat increases for many patients. Growth hormone or growth hormone releasing factor have shown early promise at reducing fat increases inside the abdomen or neck area but are expensive and not approved for that indication at present. For now treatment options are sub-optimal. KH