L-Carnitine in the treatment of HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome.
The objective of this pilot study was to assess the effect of L-carnitine on the course of the HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome. Twelve patients presenting with combined atrophic and hypertrophic changes of body fat were treated with L-carnitine 1000 mg bid for 3 months. No marked improvement of the body changes was observed. However a reduction in serum cholesterol levels, but not triglycerides, was noted. These preliminary data do not support the use of L-carnitine for the rapid reversal of advanced fat tissue alterations due to HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Mauss
S
S
Specialized practice for HIV and Hepatogastroenterology, Duesseldorf, Germany. maussst@compuserve.com
Schmutz
G
G
D001835:Body Weight; D002331:Carnitine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D019247:HIV Wasting Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008060:Lipodystrophy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010865:Pilot Projects
D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D002331:Carnitine