HIV
Medical cannabis can help alleviate symptoms associated with HIV, such as chronic pain and appetite loss, potentially improving overall comfort and health management.
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that weakens the body’s immune system, and therefore its ability to fight off even the most common infections. It is typically transmitted through bodily fluids like semen, blood or breast milk. It cannot be transmitted through sweat, urine or saliva. As of 2022, over 102,000 people in the UK were receiving HIV care.
Symptoms
After an initial flu-like illness, HIV is usually asymptomatic, but the patient’s immune system will continue to be compromised. Sometimes fatigue, neuropathic pain or mental health issues can occur.
Treatments
There’s no cure for HIV, but treatments with antiretroviral medicines help people live a normal life with the condition, experiencing few or no symptoms. Treatment is vital to avoid more severe immune system damage, which can cause life-threatening illnesses like AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Some people experience long-term HIV symptoms like fatigue, and alternative treatments like medical cannabis can help provide relief.
⅓
One study from 2005 found one third of patients reported using cannabis to treat their HIV symptoms
2-3x
A 2021 study found that cannabis use in those with HIV is 2-3 times higher than in the general population
97%
A 2005 study found a 97% improvement in appetite in those with HIV using medical cannabis, and a 93% improvement in nausea
34%
A 2008 study on HIV patients found cannabis use led to a 34% reduction in neuropathic pain intensity compared to a placebo
Get high quality medicinal cannabis fromthe doctor to your door.
Word from our expert
Dr Sunil Arora Chief Medical Officer
Medical cannabis has been used for many years in the UK, by individuals living with HIV, to help manage symptoms such as chronic pain, nausea, and loss of appetite, even before it was officially legalised.
It has provided relief and improved quality of life for many, and now with legal medical access, it can be a suitable option to support both physical and emotional well-being as part of a comprehensive care plan.
At Emerald, our team of experts can help you explore medical cannabis treatments for HIV that work for you, providing you with a safe, natural option to restore balance in your life.
