Going California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis May Help Cutting Down Drinking Consumption
New research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach might substantially help individuals lower their drink consumption.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
A team of Brown University conducted a novel experiment where participants received marijuana joints to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Participants could choose to consume up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with different THC potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee participant authenticity.
“Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Results showed a marked decrease in drink consumption after subjects smoked marijuana:
- Alcohol intake fell by nineteen percent after using moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was even more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction versus the control.
Broader Context and Additional Studies
Increased legalization has driven a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the last ten years.
At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a historic low, with many turning to alternatives like weed.
Crucial to note that 40% of trial participants met the criteria for alcohol use disorder.
While marijuana could serve as a possible solution to heavy drinking, scientists caution that more study is needed.
“We’re not ready to advise people in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
