Using virtual reality avatars to help reduce cannabis use in patients with psychotic disorders

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of a novel Avatar Intervention against a supportive intervention in reducing cannabis use among patients diagnosed with psychotic disorders. The study will employ a single-blind randomized controlled design, focusing on patients who meet the DSM-5 criteria for cannabis use disorder and specific psychotic disorders. The Avatar Intervention leverages virtual reality to provide experiential and relational support, addressing the unique challenges faced by this population. Primary outcomes will include reductions in cannabis use, severity of cannabis use disorder, and improvements in quality of life, with additional analyses on various psychosocial factors.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Males or females over 18 years of age who meet the DSM-5 criteria for CUD (≥4 criteria) ;
* Patients will meet the DSM-5 criteria for schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms. Diagnoses will be established with the Structured Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current SUD for a substance other than cannabis ;
* Ongoing pharmacological or psychological treatment for CUD ;
* Ongoing detoxification for cannabis withdrawal ;
* Presence of neurological disorders ;
* Presence of a severe and unstable physical illness ;
* Inability to provide consent.

Where it's running

• Research center of the Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal
  Montreal, Quebec, Canada Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Alexandre Dumais, MD, PhD — University of Montreal, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal
• Study coordinator: Alexandre Dumais, MD, PhD
• Email: contact@avatar-intervention.ca
• Phone: 514-251-4000

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.