Evidence supporting the use of: Human growth hormone
For the health condition: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Human growth hormone (hGH) has scientific backing for its use in specific circumstances related to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The primary rationale for its use is to counteract HIV-associated wasting, a condition characterized by involuntary weight loss and muscle mass reduction, which was more prevalent before the widespread adoption of effective antiretroviral therapy. Several randomized controlled trials, such as those published in Annals of Internal Medicine (2000) and Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2001), demonstrated that recombinant human growth hormone can increase lean body mass, reduce fat mass, and improve physical endurance in HIV-infected patients with wasting syndrome. The FDA approved the use of recombinant hGH (Serostim) for HIV-associated wasting in 1996, recognizing its ability to promote anabolic effects in this population.

However, hGH is not used as a primary treatment for HIV or AIDS itself, nor does it have antiviral properties. Its use is limited to supportive care for wasting, and potential adverse effects—such as edema, arthralgia, and glucose intolerance—necessitate careful patient selection and monitoring. With improved HIV treatments, wasting syndrome has become less common, thus limiting the contemporary role of hGH. In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting hGH use for HIV-associated wasting, but not for the direct treatment of HIV/AIDS.

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