HIV and Cannabis Use Research Study

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio are conducting a study to understand how cannabis affects inflammation, HIV levels, and symptoms of distress in people with HIV.

Fast Facts

Ages 18+

HIV Positive

Use Cannabis Regularly

Compensation Provided

Conducted in
Houston and San Antonio

Study Background

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio are conducting a study to understand how cannabis affects inflammation, HIV levels, and symptoms of distress in people with HIV.

This study aims to assess the feasibility of abstaining from marijuana use for a 28-day period among participants. Throughout eight study visits spanning 28 days, participants will engage in questionnaire completion and provide blood and urine samples for analysis. Monetary incentives will be provided as compensation for attending these visits, with additional incentives offered contingent upon urine samples indicating successful cessation of marijuana use.

The research seeks to gain insights into the challenges individuals face when attempting to refrain from marijuana consumption over a defined timeframe. By collecting and analyzing biological samples, the study aims to explore the effects of abstaining from marijuana and evaluate the effectiveness of incentives in supporting cessation efforts. Overall, the findings may contribute to developing strategies to assist individuals in reducing or stopping marijuana use effectively.

PI Emeka Okafor, UT Health San Antonio

Study Background

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio are conducting a study to understand how cannabis affects inflammation, HIV levels, and symptoms of distress in people with HIV.

This study aims to assess the feasibility of abstaining from marijuana use for a 28-day period among participants. Throughout eight study visits spanning 28 days, participants will engage in questionnaire completion and provide blood and urine samples for analysis. Monetary incentives will be provided as compensation for attending these visits, with additional incentives offered contingent upon urine samples indicating successful cessation of marijuana use.

The research seeks to gain insights into the challenges individuals face when attempting to refrain from marijuana consumption over a defined timeframe. By collecting and analyzing biological samples, the study aims to explore the effects of abstaining from marijuana and evaluate the effectiveness of incentives in supporting cessation efforts. Overall, the findings may contribute to developing strategies to assist individuals in reducing or stopping marijuana use effectively.

PI Emeka Okafor, UT Health San Antonio

Additional Information

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio are conducting this study to explore the impact of cannabis on inflammation, HIV viral load, and symptoms of distress among individuals living with HIV.

You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 18+
  • HIV positive
  • Use cannabis regularly
  • Not currently receiving treatment for cannabis or other drugs
  • Willing to stop using cannabis for 28 days

Participants will attend eight in-person study visits spread over a 28-day period.

First Visit: At the first visit, participants will undergo a medical history examination and provide a urine sample.

Weekly Visits: Subsequent weekly visits will involve completing questionnaires, providing urine samples (to check for marijuana abstinence), giving blood samples to assess HIV health indicators, and participating in clinician interviews. Each study visit will last no more than 1.5 hours.

Participants will be compensated for their time.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.