Actively Recruiting
Cannabis Potency Effects on Brain White Matter in Early Phase Psychosis: A Pilot Feasibility Treatment Study
Led by Nova Scotia Health Authority · Updated on 2026-04-07
24
Participants Needed
2
Research Sites
13 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
N
Nova Scotia Health Authority
Lead Sponsor
D
Dalhousie University
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are studying young adults aged 18 to 25 with early phase psychosis (EPP) to understand how different levels of cannabis potency affect brain white matter. The study focuses on three groups based on cannabis use: high potency (over 15% THC), low potency (under 15% THC), and minimal or no cannabis use. The goal is to see if metformin, a medication already used to manage side effects of antipsychotic drugs, can influence changes in white matter linked to cannabis use in these individuals. All participants will take metformin daily for six months while continuing their usual antipsychotic treatment. They will attend visits at the start of the study, at three months, and at six months. During these visits, participants will complete questionnaires on substance use and mental health, and undergo cognitive tests. MRI scans will be performed at the beginning and end of the study to assess brain changes. Throughout the study, researchers will collect detailed information about cannabis and other substance use, symptom severity, cognitive function, and brain imaging results. They will monitor adherence to metformin treatment and evaluate changes over time in cannabis use, white matter structure, and cognitive abilities. The study aims to test the feasibility of this approach to guide future research and treatment development in young adults with psychosis and cannabis use.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Cannabis Potency Effects on Brain White Matter in Early Phase Psychosis
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Individuals aged 18 to 25 years
- Enrolled in the Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program
You will not qualify if you...
- Current stimulant use disorder
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 6 months
Participants receive daily Metformin treatment for 6 months alongside their usual antipsychotic care while attending scheduled assessments.
3 visits (baseline, 3 months, and 6 months post baseline)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 2 locations
1
Psychosis Intervention Early Recovery Program
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Actively Recruiting
2
Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
R
Rachel Church, MSc.OT
C
Candice E Crocker, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Number of Arms
1
Similar Trials
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team for quick support
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here