Pharmacologic Management of HIV-Associated Wasting Syndrome

Wasting syndrome is a serious and life-threatening complication of HIV infection that is characterized by weight loss, but, more specifically, by a significant loss of lean body mass. The prevalence of this disorder is hard to pinpoint due to changes in the definition of wasting over time and the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Various pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches can be used for wasting syndrome, but specific regimens must be based on each individual's underlying pathophysiology. Nutritional therapy, strength training, appetite stimulation, anabolic therapies, and cytokine inhibitors are all important options in controlling this disorder.