
What Is HIV‑associated Wasting?
HIV‑associated wasting may be of concern for many people living with HIV, even when the virus is well controlled with antiretroviral therapy
HIV‑associated wasting can have an effect on your body, physical endurance, and ability to complete tasks, even if your HIV is well controlled on antiretroviral therapy (ART)
People living with HIV may experience the symptoms of HIV‑associated wasting, including those who:
- Are newly diagnosed
- Are Long-Term Survivors
- Have their virus well controlled on antiretroviral therapy
- Are on antiretroviral therapy and losing weight without trying
- Are on antiretroviral therapy and have, or have had, an HIV/AIDS-related infection
- Are living with advanced HIV disease
- Are on antiretroviral therapy , but their viral load has not gone down
- Have been prescribed antiretroviral therapy but have not taken it as directed
You may experience HIV‑associated wasting even when your HIV is well controlled on ART.
HIV‑associated wasting is defined by 3 key symptoms
Although unintentional weight loss is a symptom of HIV‑associated wasting, the condition is about more than just body weight. HIV‑associated wasting may impact your body in a number of ways, including:
Loss of Lean Body Mass (LBM)
- LBM includes muscle mass and is a part of your total body composition. It is what your body would weigh if you didn’t have any body fat
- LBM loss may impact your energy levels
- You may feel tired, need to rest more often, or find it more difficult to complete some of your activities
Loss of Body Weight
- You may be losing weight without trying
- As your weight changes, your appearance may change
- Your clothing may fit more loosely due to your unintentional weight loss
- Friends, family, or coworkers may notice changes in your weight
Decreased Physical Endurance
- You may find yourself getting tired more quickly
- Even simple, everyday tasks can be difficult for you to do
- You find that you don’t have enough energy
HIV‑associated wasting should not be ignored
HIV‑associated wasting can seriously affect your health. It can cause loss of LBM and body weight, and can reduce physical endurance. If you are experiencing symptoms of HIV‑associated wasting, talk to your healthcare provider about whether treatment with Serostim® might be right for you.