Going California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis Could Help Reducing Drinking Intake
New research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could substantially assist people lower their drink use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Setting
Researchers from Brown University conducted a novel experiment where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to consume before entering a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Participants could choose to drink up to eight small drinks.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol levels: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure subject realism.
“We wanted to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Impact on Alcohol Use
Outcomes revealed a marked decrease in alcohol intake after subjects used marijuana:
- Drink intake fell by 19% after consuming 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent reduction versus the placebo.
Broader Context and Additional Studies
Increased legal access has driven a major surge in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the past decade.
Meanwhile, alcohol consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to alternatives like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of trial participants met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
While cannabis might be a potential alternative to heavy drinking, researchers caution that further study is required.
“It is premature to advise people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
