California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis May Help Reducing Alcohol Consumption
New research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach could significantly assist people lower their drink use.
Research Methodology and Controlled Environment Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a novel study where participants received marijuana joints to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects had the option to drink up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The experiment was conducted three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, moderate potency, and a placebo marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to guarantee subject realism.
“Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Outcomes revealed a marked decrease in alcohol intake after subjects used cannabis:
- Drink consumption fell by 19% after using 3.1% THC cannabis.
- Reduction was more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent reduction compared to the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has doubled over the last ten years.
At the same time, drink consumption is at a record low, with numerous individuals opting for alternatives like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of trial participants met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
While cannabis could serve as a possible solution to excessive alcohol use, scientists warn that more study is needed.
“We’re not ready to tell people in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” a study author noted.
