How cannabis affects HIV treatment and brain health
Official title: Cannabis Effects on Antiretroviral Therapy, Pharmacokinetics, and Neurotoxicity
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10814269 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using cannabis might affect the way HIV medications work in your body, especially in your brain, and how it could relate to mood and thinking problems, so we can find better ways to help people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $710,942 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA050491-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10814269 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also use cannabis, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or are not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cannabis use on the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in individuals living with HIV. It focuses on how cannabis may alter the pharmacokinetics of ART, particularly its distribution in the central nervous system (CNS) and its potential neurotoxic effects. The study aims to understand the relationship between cannabis use, ART efficacy, and cognitive and mood disorders associated with HIV. By examining various factors such as the method of cannabis consumption and its chemical composition, the research seeks to provide insights into optimizing treatment for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals living with HIV, enhancing their overall health and cognitive function.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research on the specific effects of cannabis on ART and cognitive disorders in HIV, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding drug interactions and their implications for treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Letendre, Scott L — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Letendre, Scott L
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.