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Overview
Endocrine System
Metabolism
Body Composition
General Health Considerations
Understanding HIV Wasting


Metabolism

When you are eating right and exercising regularly, your body converts the food you eat into energy. The conversion is called metabolism. With regular metabolism, the body also draws energy from stored fat in addition to carbohydrates.

In many people diagnosed with HIV-associated wasting, their bodies may draw energy from lean body mass (LBM) which may cause a reduction in physical endurance. When you lose LBM, you lose muscle, organs, blood cells and water, which are all essential to energy production and physical endurance.

Growth hormone can build lean body mass (LBM). In addition, growth hormone can help the body properly regulate the use of body fat as a source of energy.



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Prescribing Information

Important Safety Information:
Serostim® [somatropin [rDNA origin) for injection] is indicated for the treatment of HIV-associated wasting or cachexia in patients receiving antiretroviral therapy. Serostim® should not be used in patients with active cancer or in patients hospitalized in intensive care. Patients with a history of diabetes or related glucose intolerance problems should be monitored closely during Serostim® treatment. Common side effects with Serostim® include joint pain and swelling. These side effects can usually be managed with treatment or a change in Serostim® dose. See full prescribing information. Serostim® is available by prescription only. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

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