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HIV & Substance Use Research Study

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina are studying how genes affect HIV growth in people who use cannabis or cocaine impacts oral bacteria, inflammation, and brain health in people with HIV.

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Fast Facts

HIV Positive Individuals Ages 18+

Have Been Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy For At Least 1 Year

Regularly Use Cannabis or Have a Problem With Cocaine

Compensation Provided

Conducted in
Charleston, SC

Study Background

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina are studying how cannabis or cocaine use affects HIV, oral bacteria, inflammation, and brain health.

We are studying how substance use, such as cocaine or cannabis, impacts the health of people with HIV. Cocaine use has been linked to increased inflammation and a weaker immune system, which may speed up HIV progression. Our research focuses on how specific genes in the body influence HIV growth and interact with cocaine use to better understand why people with HIV who use cocaine face more health challenges.

We are also studying the effects of cannabis use. Early research shows that marijuana users tend to have higher levels of bacteria in their mouths compared to non-users. We aim to explore how these changes in bacteria impact inflammation, brain health, and overall well-being in individuals with and without HIV. By examining the effects of both cocaine and cannabis, we hope to uncover new insights into how these substances affect HIV and overall health, leading to better treatments and care strategies.

Help further research on HIV and substance use by joining our study today!

Study Background

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina are studying how cannabis or cocaine use affects HIV, oral bacteria, inflammation, and brain health.

We are studying how substance use, such as cocaine or cannabis, impacts the health of people with HIV. Cocaine use has been linked to increased inflammation and a weaker immune system, which may speed up HIV progression. Our research focuses on how specific genes in the body influence HIV growth and interact with cocaine use to better understand why people with HIV who use cocaine face more health challenges.

We are also studying the effects of cannabis use. Early research shows that marijuana users tend to have higher levels of bacteria in their mouths compared to non-users. We aim to explore how these changes in bacteria impact inflammation, brain health, and overall well-being in individuals with and without HIV. By examining the effects of both cocaine and cannabis, we hope to uncover new insights into how these substances affect HIV and overall health, leading to better treatments and care strategies.

Help further research on HIV and substance use by joining our study today!

Apply Now

Additional Information

This study aims to understand how cocaine and cannabis use affect HIV growth, oral bacteria, inflammation, and brain health, helping to improve care and treatment for people with HIV.

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

Inclusion Criteria:

  • HIV positive individuals ages 18+
  • Have been receiving antiretroviral (cART) therapy for at least 1 year
  • Dependent on cannabis or cocaine
  • No diagnosis of bipolar or psychotic disorder
  • Identify cannabis/cocaine as main drug
  • Not pregnant

What Will Happen in This Study

If you agree to participate, the steps will depend on whether you use cocaine or cannabis:

For Cocaine Users
  1. Sample Collection: Urine, blood, nasal swab, and saliva samples will be collected.
  2. Medical Record Review: If you are HIV-positive, your medical records will be reviewed for relevant information.
  3. Pregnancy Test: If you are a woman of childbearing potential, a urine pregnancy test will be conducted to confirm eligibility.
  4. Questionnaires: You will complete surveys about your demographic information, medical history, and substance use.
  5. Duration: The study visit will take approximately 60 minutes and will be conducted in person.
 
For Cannabis Users
  1. Sample Collection: Urine, blood, nasal swab, and saliva samples will be collected.
  2. Medical Record Review: If you are HIV-positive, your medical records will be reviewed for relevant information.
  3. Pregnancy Test: If you are a woman of childbearing potential, a urine pregnancy test will be conducted to confirm eligibility.
  4. Questionnaires: You will complete surveys about your demographic information, medical history, and substance use.
  5. Neurocognitive Assessment: You will participate in tests to assess brain function and cognitive health.
  6. Duration: The study visit will take approximately 120-180 minutes and will be conducted in person.

These steps are designed to help researchers better understand the effects of substance use on HIV, overall health, and brain function.

In return for your time and effort, you will receive a $100 gift card for the completion of all the study procedures. If you do not complete the study, payment will be prorated based on the procedures completed.

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

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