California Sober: Research Suggests Marijuana May Help Reducing Drinking Intake
New scientific investigation published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that adopting a “California sober” approach might significantly assist people reduce their drink consumption.
The Study and Bar Lab Setting
Researchers from Brown University carried out a novel study where volunteers received marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Participants could choose to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The experiment was repeated three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure participant realism.
“Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Results revealed a marked reduction in drink consumption after participants smoked cannabis:
- Drink consumption fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC cannabis.
- Reduction was more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease versus the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legal access has spurred a major surge in cannabis usage, which has doubled over the last ten years.
At the same time, drink consumption is at a record low, with numerous individuals opting for substitutes like weed.
Crucial to note that 40% of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
While marijuana could serve as a potential alternative to excessive drinking, researchers warn that more research is needed.
“We’re not ready to advise individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.
