[Anabolic therapy in patients with HIV infections]

Abstract

Aim: To assess effectiveness of Deka-Duraboline--preparation of anabolic steroid hormone (nandrolone decanoate)--in the treatment of weight loss in AIDS patients.

Materials and methods: 13 AIDS patients with weight loss < 10% admitted to Moscow Center of AIDS Prevention and Treatment were given Deka-Durabolin 1 time a week 50 mg intramuscularly for 12 weeks after failure of attempts to arrest weight loss. Body mass, diarrhea, appetite and general condition (visual analogue scale) were studied.

Results: Deka-Duraboline treatment arrested weight loss in 12 of 13 cases, improved well-being. All the patients displayed better appetite, reduced diarrhea.

Conclusion: Deka-Duraboline is effective in improving body weight, appetite, diarrhea and well-being in AIDS patients. It is advisable to further study Deka-Duraboline in a controlled randomized trial.