Being Alive Newsletter, Being Alive/Los Angeles - October 1992
Mark Katz MD and reported by Jim Stoecker

Some researchers believe that Trental can be useful in combating HIV wasting syndrome. In 1988, there was the first report that Trental lowered TNF and thus helped fight the wasting syndrome associated with late stage HIV disease. To understand the significance of this finding, some background is in order.

Cytokines are chemicals found in the blood stream that are elaborated in the presence of certain infections, including those seen with HIV disease. One cytokine that has been identified is Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF). This cytokine has been shown to increase HIV replication in the test tube and seems to be associated with wasting syndrome. This syndrome refers to that period of time late in HIV disease where people either do not want to eat or, despite eating, lose weight.

Studies have shown that the level of TNF increases as HIV progresses. Some researchers believe that controlling TNF can slow disease progression and thus forestall the onset of wasting syndrome. Thus, we have an explanation for the renewed interest in Trental as therapy for HIV disease.

ACTG 160 studied a small group of people whose average T-cell count was less than 100. After eight weeks of Trental, researchers noted both decreased TNF and decreased plasma viremia (the level of virus in the blood). There also seemed to be a slowing of weight loss among the participants, although these results were not considered to be statistically significant.

Trental is also being studied as a treatment for KS. Current research indicates that the presence of cytokines may propel KS. Trental, by controlling cytokines, may slow the disease.

More research is needed to determine if Trental should be a part of therapy for late stage HIV disease. Meanwhile, Trental is a readily available medication. Those in late stage and suffering weight loss might want to consult with their medical provider and consider trying Trental.
921001
BA921005

Copyright © 1992 - Beings Alive. Permission granted for noncommercial reproduction, provided that our address and phone number are included if more than short quotations are used. Subscription lists are kept confidential. Being Alive, 621 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069, Tel - 310.289.2551; FAX - 310.289.9866; Email: BeiAlive@aol.com  http://www.beingalivela.org/