Going California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis Could Assist in Cutting Down Alcohol Intake
New scientific investigation released in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that embracing a “California sober” approach might substantially assist people lower their drink consumption.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Scenario
Researchers from Brown University conducted a unique experiment where participants received cannabis cigarettes to consume before visiting a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Participants had the option to consume up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The experiment was conducted three separate times with different THC potencies: high potency, moderate potency, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and beer taps to guarantee subject authenticity.
“Our goal was to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the principal investigator.
Key Findings and Impact on Drinking
Outcomes revealed a marked decrease in drink consumption after subjects used marijuana:
- Alcohol intake dropped by 19% after using moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was more significant with high-THC cannabis, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease compared to the placebo.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Expanded legal access has spurred a major surge 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 met the criteria for alcohol use disorder.
Although marijuana might be a possible solution to excessive alcohol use, researchers caution that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
