How To Treat Wasting When You Have Hiv

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Wasting Syndrome

Hormone levels can affect the metabolism. HIV seems to change some hormone levels including testosterone and thyroid. Also, cytokines play a role in wasting. Cytokines are proteins that produce inflammation to help the body fight infections. People with HIV have very high levels of cytokines. This makes the body produce more fats and sugars, but less protein. Unfortunately, these factors can work together to create a "downward spiral." For...

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Too Early To Treat Wasting

I have recently been diagnosed HIV+. The best estimate is that I sero-converted approximately two years ago. I am presently not undergoing anti-retroviral therapy. CD4 levels are 1300. VL is 7000. My weight has however diminished to a point where...

Response from Douglas T. Dieterich, M.D.

New York University, School of Medicine

You don't say how old you are, but that may be low level of testosterone. HIV has a particular propensity to kill testicular cells and testosterone replacement may help youl.If you are 40 for example, then that level of testosterone may be too... Read more »

is the use of steroids to treat wasting and weight loss really safe in the long run?

I am posting this question again since whent the first time I submitted it when I hit send my comp went blooey! I have been hiv pos for about 9 or 10 years with one bout of pcp about 7 or 8 years ago. Recently I have been diagnosed with lymphoma...

Response from Keith Henry, M.D.

University of Minnesota, School of Medicine

I would be OK with the Androgel for testosterone replacement-the oxandrin is more problematic as you highlight. During the chemotherapy I would advise against use of oxandrin. If the lymphoma is put into a remission the issue could be again. I am... Read more »

is the use of steroids to treat wasting and weight loss really safe in the long run?

I am posting this question again since whent the first time I submitted it when I hit send my computer went blooey! I have been hiv positive for about 9 or 10 years with one bout of PCP about 7 or 8 years ago. Recently I have been diagnosed with...

Response from Brian Conway, M.D.

University of British Columbia

I'm very sorry to hear about your lymphoma, and I hope the chemotherapy goes as well as possible.The oxandrin did NOT cause your lymphoma, so banish this thought from your mind. As to whether you can still use the oxandrin, this is a question... Read more »

Am I doing enuogh to treat wasting??

Hello. I have been diagnosed with wasting. I am taking Sustiva, Crixivan, & Previon to treat HIV. I am taking Megase, Ultrase, Advera, multi-vitamins, Co Q-10, opium, to treat wasting. I am also taking Serastim & Testosterone injections...

Response from Alvan Fisher, M.D.

Brown University School of Medicine

Wow! Indeed you are trying. I do not use megace as it is not very effective in regaining muscle mass. Though you are already using serostim and testosterone you could try oxandrolone or nandrolone. Oxandrolone can be used at doses from 20-80mg... Read more »

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HIV/AIDS Lipoatrophy (Facial Wasting)

Posted by bradford, 2 Replies

HIV/AIDS Lipoatrophy (Facial Wasting)

Individuals living with HIV and AIDS may not only have to deal with the threat of illness but the toll of illness. All that is required to stay healthy and alive can leave an everlasting mark! I'm referring to... Read more »

facial wasting * any help/support appreciated

Posted by boston781, 3 Replies

I've been HIV+ since '91. I'm currently on fuzeon & other meds. I am so depressed over my sunken cheeks. I'm doing well healthwise being on this regimen. If anyone knows or has any suggestions on where to find help in the Boston area I'd... Read more »

living with facial wasting

Posted by chrisFFF, 1 Reply

Hello,
I wanted to write because I have recently started a website to help people living with facial wasting. Lipoatrophy is a pretty emotional issue to deal with, and I wanted to have a place for people to connect about it and find out how to treat... Read more »

Wasting severly--HELP

Posted by Anonymous, 3 Replies

My loved one is wasting away, how much weight can a person lose and still get healthier? I am very scared and worried about him. Read more »

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