Efavirenz (EFV) Intensification

To evaluate the safety and tolerability of efavirenz (EFV) intensification on the HIV-1 reservoir. Participants with well controlled HIV, specifically with a HIV viral load (VL) <500 for at least 48 weeks will be eligible. Prior to enrollment, we will prescreen individuals to ensure they do not have a polymorphism in cytochrome P450 (CYP450) which results in rapid metabolism of the study drug efavirenz. Leukapheresis and lymph node (LN) fine needle aspirates will be collected at baseline. Participants eligible to participate will begin taking Efavirenz in addition to their baseline combination antiretroviral therapy. Blood samples (120ml) will be collected twice at day 30 and day 90 for cell associated HIV RNA and HIV DNA assessments. Follow-up LN aspirates and follow-up Leukapheresis will be collected at completion of study, between day 150-180, based on scheduling. At day 90 pharmacokinetic (PK) evaluation of EFV will take place to ensure therapeutic levels of Efavirenz. At the completion of the 180 day course of efavirenz, participants will stop efavirenz but continue their baseline HIV regimen. Cluster of Differentiation 4 (CD4), HIV viral load (VL) and monitoring chemistries will be performed at visits on day 30, day 90 and day 150-180.

Inclusion criteria

• At least 18 years of age
• Diagnosis of HIV
• Documentation of at least two historical HIV-1 RNA viral load measurements <500 copies/mL while on ART obtained by standard assay.
• No known non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) resistance mutations.
• Currently on a stable regimen including an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) and two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI). Receiving the current regimen for at least 90 days prior to study entry with no intention to change for the duration of the study.

Exclusion criteria

• Untreated depression, defined as a Patient health questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) score > 15 at time of enrollment
• Known prior NNRTI resistance, or INSTI resistance.
• Cytochrome 450 polymorphism resulting in rapid or delayed metabolism of Efavirenz
• Not currently on a PI based regimen.
• Does not have an immunocompromising medical condition. (ie malignancies particularly leukemia, lymphoma, use of immunosuppressive or antineoplastic drugs or X-ray treatment).
• Chronic, acute, or recurrent infections that are current and serious, in the opinion of the site investigator.
• Breastfeeding patients as well as those whom are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during period of the study.
• Those with active Hepatitis C or Hepatitis B.