Treating Chronic Pain and Depression in HIV+ Patients in Primary Care Settings

Treating Chronic Pain and Depression in HIV+ Patients in Primary Care Settings

The purpose of this study is to determine whether participation in the study intervention, which involves collaboration between the study interventionist and the participant's primary care physician, will reduce symptoms of pain and depression in HIV+ patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Chronic Pain (pain duration for at least six months with a mean score of 5 or higher on the BPI Pain Interference Scale)
• Pain severity of 40 or higher on a Visual Analog Scale (0-100) indicating "worst pain in the last week"
• At least one trial of PCP-recommended medication (i.e. acetominophen, NSAIDS, skeletal muscle relaxants) judged through interviews with patients and PCPs
• QIDS score of ≥ 9 (depression severity)
• Stable dose of an antidepressant, if using, for the previous 2 months
• Age 18 or older
• HIV+

Exclusion Criteria:

• Lifetime DSM-IV diagnosis of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other chronic psychotic condition
• Current DSM-IV diagnosis of substance dependence for alcohol, sedative/ hypnotic drugs, stimulants, or cocaine
• Suicidal ideation or behavior requiring immediate attention
• In psychotherapy or in a multidisciplinary pain management program
• Expected surgery in the next 6 months
• Pain thought to be due to cancer, infection, or inflammatory arthritis
• Pregnancy