I have been poz since at least 1984 (in the MACS study). I have significant intra abdominal fat and wasting in my arms, legs, and face. I also have type II Diabetes. My endocrinologist told me that RHGH had been approved. I knew that there were some studies taking place. Do you know the status of this? I understood that RHGH does not affect blood sugar like earlier forms did.

Thanks

Growth hormone or growth hormone releasing factor can sometimes decrease intra abdominal fat seen with HIV-related lipodystrophy. Both drugs are very expensive and have to be injected with any benefit fading after drug stopped. Neither are approved in US for treatment of HIV associated lipodystrophy (latter drug still under review with recent favorable ruling by FDA committee). Growth hormone releasing factor may have less side effects (less bone pain and glucose problems) than growth hormone. I have had patients on both drugs in studies with variable but sometimes modest benefit. KH