Could an arthritis drug lift depression in HIV patients?

NCT ID NCT05849038

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Emory University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study looks at whether inflammation in the brain causes symptoms like loss of interest and slow movement in depressed people with HIV. Sixty participants will receive either the anti-inflammatory drug baricitinib or a placebo for 10 weeks. Researchers will use brain scans and motivation tests to see if the drug improves these symptoms.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: baricitinib (Olumiant)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new treatment for depression in people with HIV by targeting inflammation.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study with only 60 participants. The drug may not improve symptoms, and side effects like infection risk 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.

AIDS Anhedonia Depression depressive disorder HIV infectious disease major depressive disorder Psychomotor Disorders

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANHEDONIA DEPRESSION HIV

Contacts and locations

Locations

Emory University Hospital
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
Grady Memorial Hospital
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30303, United States

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