HIV patients with belly fat who took tesamorelin had a 69% chance of losing at least 8% visceral fat, while those on placebo had only a 33% chance, showing a clear benefit from the drug.
Scientific Claim
In HIV-infected patients with abdominal obesity, tesamorelin treatment was associated with a 69% rate of ≥8% visceral adipose tissue reduction compared to 33% with placebo (P < 0.001).
Original Statement
“In the combined Phase III trials, 69% of subjects receiving tesamorelin achieved VAT reduction ≥ 8%, compared to 33% of those receiving placebo (P < 0.001).”
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 study is a randomized controlled trial, but blinding status is unknown, so causation cannot be confirmed. The use of 'associated with' appropriately reflects the evidence.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Visceral fat reduction with tesamorelin is associated with improved liver enzymes in HIV