California Sober: Research Suggests Marijuana Could Assist in Reducing Drinking Intake
Emerging scientific investigation published in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that adopting a “California sober” approach might substantially assist people lower their drink consumption.
The Study and Bar Lab Setting
Researchers from Brown University carried out a unique study where participants were provided with cannabis cigarettes to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects had the option to consume up to 8 small drinks.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with different tetrahydrocannabinol levels: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure participant authenticity.
“We wanted to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the lead researcher.
Key Findings and Effects on Alcohol Use
Results revealed a notable reduction in alcohol consumption after subjects smoked marijuana:
- Drink consumption fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was even more pronounced with high-THC cannabis, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease compared to the control.
Wider Trends and Future Research
Increased legalization has driven a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has doubled over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a historic low, with many opting for alternatives like marijuana.
It is important to note that forty percent of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
Although cannabis might be a potential alternative to heavy alcohol use, researchers warn that more research is required.
“It is premature to advise people in treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author noted.
