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Glossary

Selected words and phrases

amniocentesis – test in which cells around a fetus are removed and examined to detect genetic abnormalities

publication bias – the tendency for published results to be different to other trials. For example, trials that show a positive effect are more likely to be reported and published than trials that find no effect.

dronabinol – medicine made from the active ingredient in marijuana. Dronabinol is approved in the US but is no longer available in the UK.

ALT, alanine aminotransferase, also called serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase; SGPT)  – a key liver enzyme produced in liver cells. ALT is routinely monitored in HIVpositive people on ARVs to monitor liver toxicity from HIV drugs (or other medications). Increased ALT signals liver injury, but does not indicate how serious liver damage is.

Information on liver tests.

SC (sub-cutaneous) – under the skin. See IV (intravenous) and IM (intra-muscular).