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Testosterone and Resistance Training in AIDS
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IN RESPONSE:
We agree with Dr. Kamel that our data demonstrate a significant effect of supraphysiologic testosterone on muscle mass and strength in eugonadal men with AIDS wasting. The use of testosterone may therefore be considered to reverse sarcopenia in this population. However, we also agree that the long-term safety of supraphysiologic testosterone is unknown in this population. Although our data do not show adverse effects on prostate-specific antigen and hematocrit levels, the study was short and the longer-term safety effects remain unknown. Furthermore, our data do suggest a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, which may adversely affect such patients. In addition, long-term use of high-dose testosterone may result in suppression of gonadal function. In contrast, we have shown that progressive resistance training increases muscle mass and improves levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. How these strategies will be best used in long-term clinical care remains to be determined.
- Copyright ©2004 by the American College of Physicians
