Inflammation and Depression in People With HIV

This study aims to find out if inflammation affects the brain's reward and movement systems, causing depression symptoms in people with HIV. **HIV** is a virus that attacks the immune system. Participants will take either an anti-inflammatory drug called **baricitinib** or a placebo (a pill with no medicine) for 10 weeks. The study is double-blind, meaning neither doctors nor participants know who gets the real drug. This helps ensure fair results. Participants will undergo lab tests, brain scans, and optional spinal taps.

• **Length of Study:** About 3.5 months with a 10-week treatment period.
• **Visits Needed:** Includes lab tests, brain scans, and medical check-ups.
• **Eligibility:** Must have HIV, depression, and high inflammation.

This study could help create new therapies for depression in people with HIV. Participating involves some tests that might be uncomfortable, like spinal taps, but they can help doctors learn more about treating depression in HIV patients.