Important note: Information in this article was accurate in August 2000. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Researchers in France conducted laboratory experiments on fat cells with the protease inhibitor indinavir (Crixivan). According to their results, indinavir reduced the formation of fat cells and the sensitivity of fat cells to the hormone insulin. Since insulin helps absorb sugar, a reduced sensitivity to insulin could result in high levels of sugar remaining in the blood, which is a risk factor for diabetes.
Another research team in the United States has also conducted experiments on fat cells using protease inhibitors and nukes. After bathing cells in these drugs for four to six days, the researchers found that protease inhibitors impaired the growth and development of fat cells.
When considered together, these findings about the impaired growth and development of fat cells caused by protease inhibitors suggest that these drugs may play a role in the loss of fat under the skin (subcutaneous fat) in some people taking this class of drugs.
1. Caron M, Auclair M, Vigouroux C, et al. The HIV-protease inhibitor indinavir impairs adipocyte differentiation and induces insulin resistance by probably altering ADD1/SREBP-1 maturation. Abstract 03.
2. Parker RA, Meyers DS, Andrews BA, et al. Effects of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and HIV protease inhibitors on adipogenesis and adipocyte metabolism.Abstract 04.
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