HIV infection and muscle mass

Anabolic steroids are drugs derived from the male hormone testosterone. They promote muscle growth and increase lean body mass. Although anabolic steroids have many approved medical uses, they are abused by some athletes and others seeking to improve performance and physical appearance. These non medical uses are illegal and carry many health hazards.

Anabolic steroids are often used by people who weight train to improve the effects of training and for aesthetic reasons. They are usually used in four-week cycles, followed by a period off "treatment". Anabolic steroids are artificial (synthetic) versions of the male hormone testosterone that help build muscle. They also enhance masculine characteristics.

Because they can help the body to form lean muscle, they are sometimes used to treat wasting and weight loss caused by HIV, and doctors sometimes prescribe them to people experiencing fat loss from the limbs because of lipodystrophy. Testosterone supplements are also used to treat low testosterone levels which can develop in people with HIV due to HIV infection, some other infections, anti-HIV drugs and other medicines.

The anabolic steroids have been studied as a treatment for wasting caused by HIV, and have been shown to be safe and effective, helping the formation of lean muscle mass. To be most effective, anabolic steroid treatment should be combined with an exercise programme of resistance (weight) training. Studies have mostly been restricted to men because of concerns about the side-effects of steroid treatment for women.

Anabolic steroids can increase levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and other side-effects, so their use should be closely monitored particularly if you are taking a protease inhibitor or have any risk factors for heart disease.