How cannabis affects HIV treatment and brain health

Cannabis Effects on Antiretroviral Therapy, Pharmacokinetics, and Neurotoxicity

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10814269

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10814269 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also use cannabis, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use cannabis or are not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

La Jolla, 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.
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.