Today’s powerful anti-HIV treatments, while not a cure, are keeping HIV-positive people alive and healthier longer. But sometimes overlooked is the price that many HIVers pay in side effects from their “drug cocktails.” Some effects are short-term, like diarrhea, muscle aches, and sleep disturbances. Others are long-term and potentially more medically dangerous: diabetes, bone damage, and metabolic disorders like lipodystrophy.
On Thursday, March 10, AIDS Services of Austin’s Dining With the Doctor program will explain those side effects, from mild to maddening, and how to manage them so they aren’t so disruptive. Our guest doc will be Dr. David Wright.
Practicing at the Blackstock Clinic, Wright is one of the most respected HIV-treating physicians in the Austin area, with patients from all walks of life. He is also medical director of Central Texas Clinical Research, which tests experimental medications, especially related to HIV/AIDS. An engaging and good-humored presenter, Dr. Wright is one of the program’s most popular guests.
The presentation will be given in English, but simultaneous translation will be provided for Spanish-monolingual attendees.
Dinner with Dr. Wright will be at 6pm on Thursday, March 10, at ASA, 7215 Cameron (just north of St. Johns). The evening is free, thanks to the generous sponsorship of pharmaceutical manufacturer Pfizer-Agouron. Seating is limited, so please let us save you a place: call ASA’s reception desk at 458-AIDS (458-2437) or e-mail sandy.bartlett@asaustin.org.
This article appears in March 4 • 2005.