Treatment discontinuation

As discussed above, it is currently unclear whether stopping or switching particular drugs resolves metabolic irregularities or fat redistribution. Consequently, stopping antiretroviral therapy completely is not generally advised by medical experts. Interruptions and discontinuations of antiretroviral treatment greatly increase the risk of HIV disease progression, clinical outcomes and death. The decision to stop treatment should be made only in exceptional circumstances, and in close consultation with an HIV specialist.

There are few data on the effects of treatment interruptions on lipodystrophy.

A study of 26 people who interrupted PI therapy for a median of seven weeks found that although cholesterol and triglyceride levels improved significantly in the short period off treatment, body fat distribution and glucose metabolism did not improve.1

Ten men with NRTI-associated wasting lost an average of 6kg. Three months after ceasing treatment, average weight gain was 2.5kg.2

References

  1. Hatano H et al. Metabolic and anthropometric consequences of interruption of highly active antiretroviral therapy. AIDS 14: 1935-1942, 2000
  2. Carr A et al. A syndrome of lipoatrophy, lactic acidaemia and liver dysfunction associated with HIV nucleoside analogue therapy: contribution to protease inhibitor-related lipodystrophy syndrome. AIDS 14: F25-F32, 2000
Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.