Cannabis in the pharmacy: less risk and more awareness (cross-border guide)
The pilot project for the sale of cannabis in pharmacies in Bern, Biel and Lucerne is proving to favour less risky consumption.
Context
In brief
- Cannabis sold in pharmacies in Bern, Bienne, and Lucerne
- Less risky consumption thanks to specialized advice
- Pilot project until October 2028
Key facts
- What: Sale of cannabis in pharmacies
- When: From 2024, extended until October 2028
- Where: Bern, Bienne, and Lucerne
- Who: People participating in the pilot project
- Amount: Prices slightly higher than the black market
The pilot project for the sale of cannabis in pharmacies in Bern, Bienne, and Lucerne is demonstrating a reduction in risky consumption. This is according to an interim scientific evaluation presented today in Bern by the three participating cities. The project, named 'Script', involves 1177 people and nine specialized pharmacies.
Specialized Advice
In the participating pharmacies, specialized staff inform customers about consumption methods that reduce harm, such as vaping or oral intake instead of smoking. 71% of those surveyed have passed on this advice to people in their social circle, contributing to greater awareness of the risks associated with cannabis consumption.
Prices and Funding
The prices of cannabis sold in pharmacies are slightly higher than those on the black market, which also helps fund the advisory activities. While older people accept the prices, young people between the ages of 18 and 25 react more sensitively. The study's management sees this as an effective tool for protecting minors.
Positive Results
According to the authorities, there have been no incidents of sales to third parties or consumption in public places. The pilot project, which began in 2024, has recently been extended until October 2028. The available results support the idea of a federal law for regulated access to cannabis, which is currently under discussion.
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Operational details
Practical Implications
The sale of cannabis in pharmacies represents a step forward towards safer and more conscious consumption. The specialized advice offered in pharmacies participating in the 'Script' pilot project is crucial for reducing the risks associated with cannabis consumption. The slightly higher prices compared to the black market contribute to financing this advisory activity, ensuring that information on less harmful consumption methods reaches a wider audience.
Comparison with the Previous Situation
Before the start of the pilot project, cannabis consumption was often associated with significant health risks, especially among young people. Regulated sales in pharmacies have allowed the introduction of safer consumption practices, such as vaping and oral administration, thus reducing potential harm. This approach has also contributed to raising public awareness of the risks of cannabis consumption, as demonstrated by the fact that 71% of those surveyed passed on the advice received to people in their circle.
Future Scenarios
With the extension of the pilot project until October 2028, it is likely that data will continue to be collected and the impact of regulated cannabis sales will be evaluated. If the results continue to be positive, a federal law may be proposed to regulate access to cannabis, thus ensuring safer consumption at the national level. This could have significant implications for public health and safety, especially among young people.
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Key points
Concrete Actions
For those interested in participating in the pilot project or obtaining information on the regulated sale of cannabis, you can contact the participating pharmacies in Bern, Biel and Lucerne. It is important to follow the advice of specialist professionals to reduce the risks associated with cannabis use. In addition, it is crucial to stay informed about the developments of the pilot project and any proposed federal legislation for regulated access to cannabis.
Useful Tools
To explore the practical implications of regulated cannabis sales and for up-to-date information on ongoing pilot projects, please refer to calcolatore stipendio and comparatore CHF/EUR. These tools can provide a detailed overview of the economic and tax implications associated with the regulated sale of cannabis, helping citizens make informed decisions.
Conclusion
The sale of cannabis in pharmacies represents a step towards safer and more conscious consumption. The specialist advice offered in the pharmacies participating in the 'script' pilot project is essential to reduce the risks associated with cannabis use. Slightly higher prices on the black market help fund this consulting activity, ensuring that information about less harmful consumption methods reaches a wider audience.
Source: tio.ch
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which cities are involved in the cannabis sales pilot?
- The cities involved in the pilot project are Bern, Bienne and Lucerne.
- What is the duration of the pilot project?
- The pilot project was recently extended until October 2028.
- How are customers informed about the least risky consumption methods?
- In participating pharmacies, trained staff inform customers about harm-reducing consumption patterns, such as vaping or oral intake instead of smoking.