Bria-Necole Diggs
University of Miami
Co-Authors: Claudia Alonso1, Sophia Poslock1, Abigail Hurtado1, Hailey Meagher1, Mame Dioum1, Sara St. George1, Dushyantha Jayaweera1, Claudia Martinez1, Denise C Vidot1
1University of Miami
Background: Cannabis use has gained attention as an alternative to opioids, particularly among people living with HIV, who frequently face chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
Objective: This study aims to explore the preferences and motivations behind cannabis and opioid use in this population.
Methods: This qualitative study analyzed data from a NIH/CFAR-funded administrative supplement study of cannabis consumers living with HIV and residing in South Florida. Eligible participants (N=15) were adults aged 18–65 with confirmed HIV diagnosis, undetectable viral loads, and cannabis consumers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis guided by a codebook approach. Transcripts were imported and independently coded in NVivo 15 based on an agreed upon codebook. All codes and themes were generated based on team consensus.
Results: The sample was 53.3% female, 73.3% non-Hispanic Black, 13.3% Hispanic/Latino, and had a mean age of 48.6 years (SD: 13.2). Four main themes for reasons for cannabis use among the participants living with HIV were generated from the analysis:
1. Soothing the Mind and Body: Interviews included the physical, mental, and emotional effects experienced when consuming cannabis. Participants reported that cannabis improved mood, induced relaxation, and increased appetite.
2. Finding Relief in the Storm: Participants described a range of coping mechanisms to manage daily mental and physical challenges, including physical activity, alcohol use, medication use, and frequently mentioned cannabis use. Cannabis was commonly used to cope with pain, stress, and anxiety, often perceived as more effective and less harmful than opioids.
3. Tailoring the Experience: Participants expressed preferences for cannabis sourced from dispensaries due to quality and legality, but often relied on the black market sources due to accessibility and cost.
4. Choosing Cannabis Over Alternatives: Compared to opioids, cannabis was favored due to its perceived lower addiction risk, fewer side effects, and comfortability, despite opioids being medically considered more effective and accepted for severe pain.
Conclusion: Adults living with HIV in South Florida prefer cannabis over opioids for symptom management, citing fewer adverse effects and greater emotional and mental relief. This study highlights the need for healthcare providers to support informed treatment decisions and suggests avenues for future research, particularly in the context of evolving cannabis legislation.