Testing a medication to reduce HIV in the brain

This study is testing baricitinib, a medication already approved for other conditions, to see if it can help reduce HIV that persists in the brain and spinal fluid even when standard HIV medications keep the virus undetectable in the blood. Researchers believe the brain may be a hidden reservoir where HIV can hide and potentially cause problems, and this medication might help target it there. The study will compare people who take the medication to those who receive a placebo.

Standard HIV medications work well to control HIV in the blood, but evidence shows the virus can still hide in the brain and spinal fluid, potentially contributing to brain-related problems and preventing a complete cure. This trial is testing whether this medication can help clear that hidden reservoir.