Question
What can I do about the weight gain around my tummy and breasts?
9 September 2010. Related: All topics, Side effects.
I am HIV positive and I am on ARV treatment but the treatment is making me gain weight especially around my breasts and tummy. Is it safe to take slimming powders or weight loosing products?
Answer
Thank you for your question.
If you are gaining weight around your stomach and breasts then it is likely that you are experiencing lipodystrophy which is a fat disorder. Lipodystrophy is a common side effect of HIV medication which has been reported with nearly every combination. Lipodystrophy involves fat accumulating in the abdomen (stomach), breasts, shoulders, neck and is sometimes exaggerated by fat loss from the arms, legs, buttocks and face.
During lipodystrophy fat builds up around your organs rather than under your skin which happens during ‘normal’ weight gain. Slimming powers and weight loss products do not generally work on the fat built up around your organs.
However, there are some things you can do. For a start you could speak to your HIV doctor about changing the HIV treatments you are taking. Additional treatments are explained in detail in this previous question and in the lipodystrophy section of the i-Base guide to ‘Avoiding and managing side effects’
Hello Cele and thanks for getting in touch.
I am very sorry to hear you are experiencing such reactions.
Can you discuss this with someone? Are you in touch with other people living with HIV?
It helps to participate in such groups and share your stories and experiences.
Weight gain has been an issue of discussion in recent years for many reasons including whether this is a side effect. It is also related to ageing, diet, exercise, family history, hormone changes, lifestyle, etc.
What has your doctor said about this?
In general the first step is to make sure your doctor knows about your concerns and that your weight and waist are measured and recorded in your medical notes.
The doctor should then look for possible causes and will talk about diet and exercise etc.
These links have more information:
https://i-base.info/htb/40717
https://i-base.info/guides/side/diet-a-balanced-diet-and-your-health
Is there anything that can help me with big tummy and thin legs, I’m also on ARV’s since 2008 and has been in so many drugs, it is sad to hear people body shaming me because of this situation
Hello Nadeen and thanks for getting in touch.
Congratulations for being on medication and doing well.
Have you discussed this with your doctor?
Your clinic should weigh you once a year and record your weight in your notes.
Please don’t worry about not gaining weight – this can take some time.
Please do not take any supplements, unless your doctor prescribes them for you.
Check here for somme advice on exercise and healthy diet that can help you gain weight using a healthy lifestyle:
https://i-base.info/guides/side/diet-a-balanced-diet-and-your-health
https://i-base.info/guides/side/exercise-and-staying-active
Hi can i use apetito to build fat in my legs and bums
Hello Mathews and thanks for getting in touch.
I am afraid we specialise in HIV medication so my knowledge doesn’t allow me to give a definitive response.
However, TB medication can often interact with a lot of medication so please check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements
Hi can I use apetito while I’m taking tb treatment