California Sober: Research Suggests Marijuana Could Help Reducing Drinking Consumption
New research released in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method might significantly assist people reduce their alcohol consumption.
The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario
A team of Brown University carried out a novel experiment where volunteers received marijuana joints to consume before visiting a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Subjects had the option to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with different tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to guarantee subject realism.
“We wanted to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the lead researcher.
Key Findings and Effects on Alcohol Use
Results showed a marked decrease in alcohol consumption after subjects smoked cannabis:
- Drink intake dropped by 19% after consuming 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was even more pronounced with high-THC cannabis, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the control.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legal access has spurred a major surge in marijuana consumption, which has doubled over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a historic low, with many turning to alternatives like weed.
It is important to note that 40% of study subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
Although cannabis could serve as a possible alternative to excessive drinking, researchers warn that more research is needed.
“It is premature to tell individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
