Rosiglitazone in the Treatment of HIV-Associated Hyperlipidemia
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
1969-12-31
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
The purpose of this research is to study the effects of rosiglitazone, a drug usually taken
for Type II diabetes, on HIV-associated hyperlipidemia. HIV-associated lipodystrophy is a
medical condition characterized by gradual changes in the distribution of body fat. The body
fat located in the extremities and face disappears while body fat around the abdomen and
upper back increases. Certain biochemical changes occur in association with these changes in
fat distribution. Lipid levels particularly serum triglycerides are increased. HDL, the "good
cholesterol" is decreased. Higher than normal level of insulin or insulin resistance is also
found in this condition. This latter condition is one of the hallmarks of Type II diabetes.
The protease inhibitors, a class of HIV medications, are associated with the occurrence of
HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It has been suggested that a biochemical pathway known as the
peripheral peroxisomal activating receptor (PPAR) gamma system is blocked leading to the
onset of this condition.
Rosiglitazone is a new drug approved by the FDA in 1999 for the treatment of type II
diabetes. It lowers blood sugar by improving insulin resistance, which as mentioned before,
is the hallmark of Type II diabetes. It has also been noted to improve blood lipid levels.
Rosiglitazone works by stimulating the PPAR gamma system. It is hoped that this drug can turn
on the PPAR system and reverse the HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome.