sql use statement with variable

Question

I\'m trying to switch the current database with a SQL statement. I have tried the following, but all attempts failed:

1. USE @DatabaseName
2. EXEC sp_sqlexe

Answer 1

I have the same problem, I overcame it with an ugly -- but useful -- set of GOTOs.

The reason I call the "script runner" before everything is that I want to hide the complexity and ugly approach from any developer that just wants to work with the actual script. At the same time, I can make sure that the script is run in the two (extensible to three and more) databases in the exact same way.

GOTO ScriptRunner

ScriptExecutes:

--------------------ACTUAL SCRIPT--------------------
-------- Will be executed in DB1 and in DB2 ---------
--TODO: Your script right here

------------------ACTUAL SCRIPT ENDS-----------------

GOTO ScriptReturns

ScriptRunner:
    USE DB1
    GOTO ScriptExecutes

ScriptReturns:
    IF (db_name() = 'DB1')
    BEGIN
        USE DB2
        GOTO ScriptExecutes
    END

With this approach you get to keep your variables and SQL Server does not freak out if you happen to go over a DECLARE statement twice.