CBD shows promise for emotional health in HIV patients

NCT ID NCT05832281

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, San Diego Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether synthetic cannabidiol (CBD) could help people living with HIV who have a condition called alexithymia, which makes it hard to recognize and describe emotions. Participants took either CBD or a placebo for 4 weeks. The goal was to see if CBD could improve emotional awareness and reduce inflammation. Only 5 people were enrolled before the study was terminated, so results are very preliminary.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: synthetic cannabidiol (CBD)
What this could lead to: If it works, CBD could offer a way to help people with HIV who struggle to identify emotions, potentially improving their mental and physical health.
What could go wrong: This was a very small, early-phase study that was terminated early, so results are limited. CBD may not work for everyone, and side effects are possible.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Affective Symptoms alexithymia HIV infectious disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALEXITHYMIA HIV

Contacts and locations

Locations

HIV Neurobehavioral Research Center/Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research

San Diego, California, 92103, United States

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