Gene/Protein Disease Symptom Drug Enzyme Compound
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Query: UMLS:C0851184 (thinning)
 11,252 document(s) hit in 31,850,051 MEDLINE articles (0.00 seconds)

Dosages, costs, side effects, and drug interactions are discussed for each approved protease inhibitor: Invirase (Saquinavir, hard-gel capsules), Crixivan (Indinavir), Norvir (Ritonavir), Viracept (Nelfinavir), and Fortovase (Saquinavir, soft-gel capsules). Information on Agenerase (amprenavir), an experimental drug not yet approved by the FDA for commercial use, is also given. Protease inhibitors may require strict dosing schedules and food restrictions; most are associated with lipodystrophy (thinning of the arms, legs and face with fat accumulation in the breasts, stomach, and sometimes the upper back). The drug's manufacturer, a doctor, and an activist offer comments. Contact information is provided.
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PMID:What they say about protease inhibitors. 1136 22

Use of the commonly prescribed protease inhibitor Crixivan appears to result in a bizarre adverse effect, despite its desirable effects on T-cell count and viral load. This adverse effect is more common in women than men, and includes the following symptoms: (1) limb wasting, (2) fat gain in the torso, (3) breast enlargement, (4) skin thinning, (4) vein enlargement, (5) irregular periods, (6) high blood pressure and high blood glucose, (6) fatigue, and (7) decreased sex drive. It is believed that 5 to 10 percent of patients taking Crixivan suffer from some of these symptoms, but the percentage would probably be much higher if the number of women alone were studied. Some physicians have been unsupportive about complaints of these symptoms, and have told their patients to exercise or that the changes may be due to aging. One suggestion for dealing with these symptoms is to get body composition measurements prior to starting a protease-containing regimen. Exercise continues to remain important, primarily to prevent wasting. However, dieting is not recommended since it does not reduce the fat deposits and it does contribute to wasting of the limbs. If the symptoms become intolerable, a change in regimen may be needed.
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PMID:The new body of AIDS: Crixivan bellies, legs, and humps. 1136 90