Frequently asked question: What effect do the HIV infection and HIV inhibitors have on your bones?
Good bone density is important for the growth and development of strong bones – not only when you are still growing, but also in later life. An HIV infection has negative effects on bone density. Particularly if the virus replicates itself quickly, the immune system causes increased bone breakdown. However, reduced bone density can also be caused by too little calcium and vitamin D, and too little exercise. If bone density is so low that bone weakness occurs, we call this osteoporosis. At that time bones can break easily. Some HIV inhibitors reduce bone density even further. However, new research shows that if you use certain HIV inhibitors for a long time, bone density actually increases. Because if the virus is unable to replicate itself, bone breakdown is also inhibited. These drugs are therefore chosen for treating children. Bone measurements and blood tests are needed to assess bone density.
Good bone density is important for the development of strong bones and good growth. Good bone density is particularly important when you are still growing, but also for later life. An HIV infection has negative effects on bone density. Particularly if the virus replicates itself quickly, the immune system causes increased bone breakdown. However, reduced bone density can also be caused by too little calcium and vitamin D, and too little exercise. If bone density is so low that bone weakness occurs, we call this osteoporosis. At that time bones can break easily. Some HIV inhibitors reduce bone density even further. However, new research shows that if you use certain HIV inhibitors for a long time, bone density actually increases. Because if the virus is unable to replicate itself, bone breakdown is also inhibited. These drugs are therefore chosen for treating children. Bone measurements and blood tests are needed to assess bone density.
