Going California Sober: Study Indicates Marijuana May Help Reducing Drinking Consumption
New research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method might significantly help individuals reduce their alcohol use.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Scenario
A team of Brown University carried out a novel study where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to smoke before entering a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Participants could choose to drink up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was repeated three separate times with different THC potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Great care was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to guarantee subject realism.
“We wanted to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Impact on Drinking
Outcomes showed a marked decrease in alcohol intake after subjects used cannabis:
- Drink consumption dropped by 19% after using moderate-THC marijuana.
- The drop was more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction versus the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Expanded legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, drink 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 use disorder.
While marijuana could serve as a possible alternative to heavy alcohol use, researchers caution that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to advise people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will be effective for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
