Methamphetamines clinical trials at UCSF

The most commonly used illicit stimulant in HIV-infected individuals is methamphetamine (MA). Prior studies demonstrate strong evidence that MA promotes increased HIV transcription as well as immune dysregulation. A challenge in achieving worldwide HIV eradication is targeting specific marginalized populations who are most likely to benefit from an HIV cure but possess poorer immune responses. For this study, HIV+ infected ART-suppressed individuals with no prior history of MA use disorder will be administered oral methamphetamine (the maximum FDA approved daily dose for the treatment of childhood obesity) to determine the effects of short-term MA exposure on residual virus production, gene expression, and inflammation. Measures of MA exposure in urine and serum will then be associated with residual virus production, gene expression, cell surface immune marker protein expression, and systemic markers of inflammation. The clinical trial data will generate advanced gene expression and immunologic data to identify potential novel targets for reversing HIV latency, reducing inflammation, and personalizing future therapies in HIV+ individuals who use MA.