What you need to know about AIDS wasting.

AIDS wasting is characterized by a loss of lean body mass, including muscle and organ tissue, coupled with increased fat production. Loss of lean body mass can lead to muscle weakness, organ failure, and sometimes death, making AIDS wasting a leading contributor to HIV-related deaths. Manufacturers first developed injected treatments such as Serostim, a recombinant human growth hormone marketed by Serono Laboratories for the treatment of wasting. More recently, MTI Biotech has begun manufacturing Juven, an over-the-counter supplement that has been shown to increase muscle mass and reverse the side effects of AIDS wasting. Serono Laboratories answers some common questions, regarding how AIDS wasting differs from other forms of weight loss and the causes and consequences of AIDS wasting. The company also addresses specific concerns related to Serostim. Serostim dosage recommendations are provided.