Cannabis use and its link to PrEP use and HIV risk

Cannabis use, PrEP and HIV transmission risk

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11380477

This project looks at whether cannabis use affects PrEP use, adherence, and HIV-related risk among HIV-negative people who could benefit from PrEP.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11380477 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We will follow 250 HIV-negative, PrEP-eligible participants from the original Networks and Neighborhoods (N2) cohort in Chicago over two years and five study waves. At each wave we'll collect short-term data using ecological momentary assessments and 14-day objective measures of cannabis use, PrEP use, and immune markers. We will combine self-reported behaviors, event-level data, and biomarkers to see how cannabis use relates to PrEP adherence and biological signs of HIV transmission risk. The goal is to produce findings that can guide better support and interventions for people who use cannabis who are at risk for HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal participants are HIV-negative adults from the original N2 cohort in Chicago who are eligible for PrEP and may use cannabis.

Not a fit: People living with HIV or those not eligible for PrEP are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the results could help tailor PrEP programs and supports to improve adherence and reduce HIV infections among people who use cannabis.

How similar studies have performed: Past research on cannabis and PrEP has produced mixed results, so this study uses more precise, real-time measures and biomarkers to clarify the relationship.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.