California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana Could Assist in Reducing Alcohol Consumption
Emerging scientific investigation released in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could significantly assist people reduce their drink consumption.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
A team of Brown University conducted a unique study where volunteers were provided with marijuana joints to consume before visiting a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects could choose to drink up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with different tetrahydrocannabinol levels: high potency, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and beer taps to guarantee participant authenticity.
“We wanted to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Impact on Drinking
Outcomes showed a marked decrease in drink intake after subjects smoked cannabis:
- Alcohol intake fell by 19% after consuming moderate-THC cannabis.
- Reduction was even more significant with high-THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease versus the placebo.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Expanded legal access has driven a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has increased twofold over the past decade.
Meanwhile, alcohol consumption is at a record low, with many turning to substitutes like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
While marijuana might be a possible solution to excessive drinking, researchers warn that further study is needed.
“We’re not ready to advise individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author noted.
