Cutting back on products which include milk or lactose may reduce diarrhea. Some of the drugs used to treat HIV and opportunistic infections are packaged with lactose. Because these drugs may be unavoidable, it may be helpful to use products which replace the enzymes needed to break down lactose. Even in cases when an infection or drug effect cannot be identified as causing diarrhea, other approaches may be worthwhile. Appetite loss may also contribute to wasting.
Appetite stimulants are an option to help increase the desire to eat.
It can alter sex characteristics in men, leading to enlarged breasts, impotence, etc. Weight gain associated with both marinol and megace is due primarily to fat rather than lean body mass. Many experts consider lean body mass to be more important than fat for weight gain. Additionally, some studies suggest that both marinol and megace decrease testosterone levels. Lack of nutrients can tax the body and further aggrevate the problem.