Sometimes people with various illnesses end up with side effects from medication or the illness itself that are unpleasant and need a treatment method as well. This is the case for HIV. Many patients with HIV also suffer from a condition called lipodystrophy, or another word for fat redistribution. This is a real problem those with HIV often suffer from. Researchers have found the research peptide, tesamorelin, treats this unpleasant condition.
What Is Lipodystrophy?
The common factor that affects most HIV patients is weight loss. This weight loss is characterized by cheeks that are sunken in and thin legs and arms. Other areas of the body suffer from lipodystrophy, or areas of fat accumulation. The areas most affected are the abdomen, jaws and the rear side of the neck. This condition is not harmful to the HIV patient, but it can be harmful to their self-confidence and mental well-being. Some patients also suffer from neck pain or headaches as a result of the excess fat on the neck. Other patients suffer from difficulty breathing or getting comfortable enough to go to sleep.
Treatment for Lipodystrophy
There has not been a proven method or cure for this condition, but there are ways to minimize its effects. Some HIV medications have been proven to cause this condition. Simply switching medications is sometimes enough to relieve these symptoms. Some patients have realized relief by simply adding exercise and a low-fat diet to their routines. The lower cholesterol this causes prevents this condition from occurring. If diet and exercise are not enough, sometimes cholesterol medication works as well. As an alternative, one of the latest methods of treatment is the introduction of tesamorelin, a research peptide.
How Research Peptides Help
Tesamorelin was recently approved by the FDA as a method of treating lipodystrophy. This peptide helps by releasing growth hormone from the pituitary gland, allowing HIV patients to have an overall feeling of well-being, as well as the ability to fight the fat deposits they are subjected to.
As is the case with any research peptide, it is imperative to talk to your doctor before you take anything, such as tesamorelin, to treat your conditions. There could be a risk of cardiac arrest as a result of dealing with lipodystrophy, which needs to be addressed with your doctor. Discussing all your options with your doctor will leave you with the best treatment options for your exact situation.
