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Recombinant human growth hormone for AIDS-associated wasting
P A Windisch1, F J Papatheofanis, K A Matuszewski
1Clinical Practice Advancement Center, University HealthSystem Consortium, Oak Brook, IL 60521, USA. windisch@msgate.uhc.edu
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|April 30, 1998
Summary
Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) shows promise in treating AIDS-associated wasting by increasing lean body mass. However, more research is needed to confirm sustainable benefits and long-term outcomes for patients with HIV.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- AIDS-associated wasting is a significant metabolic complication of HIV infection, characterized by involuntary loss of body cell mass.
- This condition leads to muscle weakness and organ failure, negatively impacting patient prognosis.
- Understanding effective therapeutic interventions is crucial for managing HIV/AIDS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on the efficacy of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) for treating AIDS-associated wasting.
- To compare rhGH therapy with alternative treatment options.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE and AIDSLINE databases from 1985 to 1997.
- Inclusion criteria focused on English-language clinical trials and human studies specifically addressing AIDS-associated wasting.
- Keywords included growth hormone, HIV, AIDS, wasting, and weight gain.
Main Results:
- Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) is FDA-approved for treating AIDS-associated wasting.
- rhGH administration (4-6 mg daily subcutaneously) increases lean body mass and decreases adipose tissue.
- It presents a more costly alternative to appetite stimulants like megestrol acetate and dronabinol.
Conclusions:
- Clinical trials suggest rhGH is encouraging for managing wasting in AIDS patients, but long-term sustainable outcomes require further investigation.
- The translation of increased lean body mass and decreased fat into reduced hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality remains undetermined.
- A formal health economic assessment is necessary to evaluate the full impact of rhGH on the healthcare system.
