Among HIV patients with high liver enzymes, 35% of those who lost at least 8% visceral fat from the drug had their ALT levels return to normal after six months, compared to 18% of those who didn't lose much fat.
Scientific Claim
In HIV-infected patients with elevated baseline ALT or AST (>30 U/L), 35% of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) responders (≥8% reduction) achieved ALT normalization (≤30 U/L) at 26 weeks compared to 18% of nonresponders (P=0.007).
Original Statement
“Among tesamorelin-treated subjects with elevated baseline transaminases, 35% of VAT responders compared to 18% of VAT nonresponders had normalization of ALT at week 26 (responders vs. nonresponders, P = 0.007).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The claim uses 'achieved' which describes the observed outcome without implying causation, and includes the P-value for statistical significance.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Visceral fat reduction with tesamorelin is associated with improved liver enzymes in HIV