California Sober: Research Suggests Marijuana Could Assist in Reducing Alcohol Intake
New research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach could substantially help individuals reduce their alcohol consumption.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
Researchers from Brown University carried out a novel experiment where participants were provided with marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Participants could choose to drink up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The experiment was repeated on three occasions with varying THC levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo marijuana.
Great care was taken to replicate a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure participant authenticity.
“Our goal was to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the principal investigator.
Key Findings and Impact on Alcohol Use
Results revealed a marked reduction in drink intake after participants smoked cannabis:
- Drink consumption dropped by 19% after using 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was even more significant with high-THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the placebo.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Increased legal access has spurred a significant rise in cannabis usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
At the same time, drink use is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to substitutes like weed.
It is important to note that 40% of trial subjects met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
While marijuana could serve as a potential solution to excessive drinking, researchers warn that more study is needed.
“We’re not ready to advise people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.
