Semaglutide's Efficacy in Achieving Weight Loss for Those With HIV
This study tests whether semaglutide, a medication used for weight loss, is safe and effective for people living with HIV who have obesity. Researchers want to understand if this drug can help HIV-positive individuals lose weight and improve their health.
Key Objective: The trial will determine whether semaglutide can safely help people with HIV achieve significant weight loss.
Who to Consider: People living with HIV who have obesity and are interested in exploring a new medication option for weight management should consider enrolling.
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
The prevalence of obesity is rising worldwide, both in low- and high-income countries, including people with HIV (PWH). Semaglutide's efficacy in achieving weight loss in obese PWH is still unexplored. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of semaglutide in achieving greater weight loss compared to diet and excercise alone in obese PWH and to explore the effect of semaglutide on the immune function, markers of immune activation, viral reservoir, markers of glucose and lipid metabolism and gut microbiome.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Be over 18 years old * Be HIV-1 antibody positive as determined by a positive 4th generation Ag/Ab ELISA assay * Be stable on ART with a viral load suppressed \<40 copies/mL for a minimum of 2 years * Have a CD4 count ≥200 cells/mm3 for a minimum of 1 year * Have a BMI ≥30kg/m2 or have a BMI ≥27kg/m2 and hypertension, dyslipidaemia or type 2 diabetes mellitus * Understand the study procedures, be able to comply with the study procedures, and voluntarily agree to participate by giving written informed consent for the trial Exclusion Criteria: * Subjects unable to comply with the study protocol or unable to self-administer subcutaneous semaglutide * History of obesity induced by other endocrine disorders: hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, primary and secondary hypogonadism, hypothalamic disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, insulinoma * History of obesity induced by use of anti-psychotic medications known to be associated with weight gain (i.e. olanzapine, clozapi