Easing HIV's Side Effects

There is potential for relief from some HIV-related side effects, according to studies presented at the 14th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections. First, in an ongoing study, 412 participants who took the experimental drug TH9507 had fat buildup in the abdomen and back reduced by 15%. The drug stimulates a growth hormone to burn off excess fat, according to Steven Grinspoon of Massachusetts General Hospital. The treatment also reduced blood triglycerides by 18%. Second, participants in a study who received Merck's cholesterol-reducing drug Zetia with anti-HIV therapy had a median 12% reduction in LDL cholesterol. Patients who received a placebo had a 3% LDL increase.