Infections and Other Health Problems

Infections and other health problems like diarrhea, depression, and substance abuse may contribute to weight loss in people with HIV-associated wasting.

Infections

Some infections can make it difficult to swallow and may cause loss of appetite. When it’s uncomfortable to eat, meals can be missed, resulting in decreased nutrient intake.

Studies have shown that infections may cause changes in metabolism and energy levels.1-4

Diarrhea

Many patients with HIV experience diarrhea. Certain HIV medications may contribute to this symptom. In some cases, chronic diarrhea can lead to unintended weight loss, abdominal pain and severe dehydration. Chronic diarrhea can be a very serious condition that may require immediate medical attention.5

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse has been associated with a decrease in nutritional intake and may cause loss of appetite. Injection drug users are at risk of getting bacterial infections, viral infections (like Hepatitis B and C), sexually transmitted diseases, and even tuberculosis.3,6

Learn about treating HIV-associated wasting

Access the full prescribing information.

References:

  1. Mulligan K, Schambelan M. HIV-associated wasting. Available at: http://hivinsite.ucsf.edu/InSite?page=kb-04-01-08. Accessed April 4, 2011.
  2. Grinspoon S, Mulligan K, for the Department of Health and Human Services Working Group on the Prevention and Treatment of Wasting and Weight Loss. Weight loss and wasting in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus. Clin Infect Dis. 203;36(Suppl 2):S69-S78.
  3. Mangili A, Murman DH, Zampini AM,Wanke CA. Nutrition and HIV infection: review of weight loss and wasting in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy from the Nutrition for Healthy Living Cohort. Clin Infect Dis. 2006;42:836-842.
  4. Macallan DC, Noble C, Baldwin C, et al. Energy expenditure and wasting in human immunodeficiency virus infection. N Engl J Med. 1995;333:83-88.
  5. Diarrhea. AIDS InfoNet Web site. Available at: http://www.aidsinfonet.org/fact_sheets/view/554. Accessed April 4, 2011.
  6. Hendricks KM, Dong KR, Gerrior J. Nutrition management of HIV and AIDS. J Am Diet Assoc. 2009;145.
Important Risk Information and IndicationToggle Button

Important Risk Information and Indication

Before beginning treatment, patients should discuss with their clinician potential benefits and risks associated with Serostim® [somatropin (rDNA origin) for injection].

You should NOT take Serostim® if:

  • You are hospitalized with complications due to heart or abdominal surgery
  • You are hospitalized for serious injuries
  • You are hospitalized for respiratory failure
  • You currently have cancer. Any cancer treatment should be completed before starting Serostim®
  • You are allergic to growth hormone products or any materials associated with the product

You should tell your clinician if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You are currently taking any medications for HIV
  • You have a history of diabetes

The most common adverse reactions associated with Serostim® are:

  • Muscle aches
  • Joint pain
  • Swelling (particularly of the hands or feet)

These side effects were generally mild-to-moderate in severity, and were often managed by lowering the dose.1

High blood glucose (sugar levels) may occur in HIV-infected individuals for many reasons and has also been reported in Serostim® clinical studies. If you have a history of high blood glucose or have other risk factors for glucose intolerance, you should be monitored closely while on Serostim®. New onset type 2 diabetes or worsening of current diabetes has been reported with Serostim®. Patients have experienced complications of diabetes, some of which were serious and continued after stopping treatment with Serostim®.

What is Serostim®?

Serostim® is human growth hormone and is the only FDA-approved medicine clinically proven to significantly increase lean body mass and body weight, and improve physical endurance. You must be on anti-retroviral therapy to be prescribed Serostim®.

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.

This information is not intended to replace discussions with your doctor. For additional information about Serositm® please consult the Prescribing Information and ask your doctor if Serostim® is right for you. You can also call the AXIS Center toll-free at 1-877-714-AXIS (2947). Serostim® is available by prescription only.

Please see Serostim® Prescribing Information available in English and Spanish

Reference:

  1. Moyle GJ, Daar ES, Gertner JM, et al. Growth hormone improves lean body mass, physical performance, and quality of life in subjects with HIV-associated weight loss or wasting on highly active antiretroviral therapy. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2004;35:367-375.

Indication

Serostim® is indicated for the treatment of HIV patients with wasting or cachexia to increase lean body mass and body weight, and improve physical endurance. Concomitant antiretroviral therapy is necessary.