HIV/AIDS & Hyperlipidemia

HIV/AIDS & Hyperlipidemia (high levels of lipids in the blood)

Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated blood levels of cholesterol and triglyceride that occur in patients who are on antiretroviral therapy. Hyperlipidemia is a significant risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Elevations in cholesterol and triglyceride levels may occur in patients who are taking protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside drugs.

To reduce the risk for heart disease, initial efforts to control hyperlipidemia through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes should be made। Medications can also be used to reduce hyperlipidemia to normal blood levels. Patients who have hyperlipidemia should consult with their physician, a nutritionist, or other health care provider about how to reduce cholesterol levels.

HIV/AIDS & Diabetes

Diabetes was first attributed to antiretroviral therapy in 1996. Antiretrovirals may trigger an earlier onset in patients who would have developed diabetes at a later time. Some studies indicate that the incidence of diabetes in patients who are on antiretrovirals is about the same as in the HIV-negative population. Everyone, whether HIV-positive or not, should be screened periodically for diabetes.