Lipodystrophy and metabolic changes
Lipodystrophy refers to changes in fat cells and the distribution of body fat. It also refers to changes in blood fat and blood sugar levels (metabolic changes).
- It is not known why some people get these changes.
- They are less common with newer meds.
- The greater awareness of lipodystrophy means that you will be monitored carefully.
- The changes usually, but not always, develop slowly over many months.
If you have any worries, make sure your doctor takes them seriously and does something about it.
Fat loss (from arms, legs, face and buttocks) is now unlikely with new drugs. This was linked to d4T and AZT which are no longer used in the UK.
Fat accumulation to the stomach or breasts and/or across the shoulders or neck has been linked to combinations that include protease inhibitors and NNRTIs.
Mild symptoms may reverse if you switch to different HIV meds. Exercise and dietary changes can also help.
Changes in fat (cholesterol and triglyceride) and sugar (glucose) levels are linked to many drugs and will be monitored by routine blood and/or urine tests.
Diet, exercise, changing treatment or using lipid lowering drugs can all help.