Use of dronabinol improves appetite and reverses weight loss in HIV/AIDS-infected patients

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether dronabinol affects appetite and weight status in patients living with HIV/AIDS. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted to analyze weight and appetite changes and nausea status in patients with HIV/AIDS who received dronabinol for 3 to 12 months from January 11, 1993, to March 17, 2003. Results: Of the 117 patients who lost weight before baseline, 63% maintained or gained weight. In patients receiving dronabinol for 1 year, the mean weight gain (± SD) was 3.7 ± 10.6 lb. The percentage of patients experiencing loss of appetite decreased significantly from 71% at baseline to 26% at 1 month (P