Investigating the health effects of regulated cannabis sales in pharmacies
The Safer Cannabis - Research In Pharmacies Randomized Controlled Trial (SCRIPT)
This study is testing whether buying cannabis from pharmacies in Switzerland is healthier and has better social effects for users compared to buying it from illegal sources.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 1091 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Bern Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Bern and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06120855 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines the individual health and social impacts of recreational cannabis users who purchase regulated cannabis from pharmacies in Switzerland compared to those who buy from the illicit market. It employs a randomized controlled trial design to gather data on health outcomes, smoking habits, and social effects before and after the introduction of regulated sales. Participants will receive counseling on harm reduction strategies, such as alternative consumption methods, to mitigate health risks associated with cannabis use. The study aims to provide robust evidence on the benefits of regulated cannabis sales and inform future policies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are regular cannabis users aged 18 and older residing in the canton of Bern or the city of Lucerne.
Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or currently undergoing psychiatric treatment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into how regulated cannabis sales can improve health outcomes and reduce risks associated with cannabis use.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on cannabis regulation have shown promising population-level effects, this randomized controlled trial approach is relatively novel and aims to provide more individualized data.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * At least 18 years old (validated with valid identification document) * Written informed consent * Regular cannabis user: Self-reported cannabis use at least once a month over the last 6 months and verified cannabis exposure based on urine analysis at baseline * Resident status in the canton of Bern (for cannabis purchase in the cities of Bern or Biel) or in the city of Lucerne (for cannabis purchase in the city of Lucerne) (validated with registration confirmation from the municipality or confirmation of the residential address) Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant women (pregnancy test based on urine sample) * Breastfeeding women (self-reported) * People with a prescription for medical cannabis (self-reported) * People currently in psychiatric inpatient treatment (self-reported) * People with current, severe psychosis (self-reported and confirmed by study nurse/study physician) * People with current, severe suicidal thoughts (self-reported and confirmed by study nurse/study physician) * Inability to follow the procedures of the study due to severe cognitive impairment or language problems * People who cannot attend the baseline study visit in-person * People planning to move out of the canton of residence within 6 months of entering the trial. * People who are participating or have participated (inclusion date up to one year ago) in another cannabis pilot trial which allows to buy regulated cannabis (validated by matching untraceable codes between studies witch the same catchment area).
Where this trial is running
Bern and 1 other locations
- University of Bern — Bern, Switzerland (Recruiting)
- Zentrum für Hausarztmedizin und Community Care, University of Lucerne — Lucerne, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Reto Auer, Prof.
- Email: reto.auer@unibe.ch
- Phone: +41 31 684 58 79
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.