TH9507: an experimental treatment for lipodystrophy.

As the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) became widespread, HIV positive individuals and their physicians began to notice changes in body fat distribution, with excess fat or fat loss noted in different areas. These body shape changes are sometimes accompanied by metabolic abnormalities, such as insulin resistance and elevated blood fats. Collectively, these changes are known as lipodystrophy syndrome. Treatment options for lipodystrophy are somewhat limited. Growth hormone has been used with success in clinical trials to reduce visceral adipose tissue, fat that collects around the abdominal organs. A new product, TH9507, a synthetic growth hormone releasing hormone analog made by the Canadian pharmaceutical company Theratechnologies, is currently showing promise in clinical trials and may represent a new treatment option for people with some types of lipodystrophy.