California Sober: Research Indicates Marijuana Could Assist in Cutting Down Alcohol Consumption
Emerging scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a “California sober” approach might significantly help individuals lower their alcohol use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario
A team of Brown University carried out a unique experiment where participants were provided with marijuana joints to consume before visiting a carefully constructed “bar lab”.
- Participants could choose to consume up to 8 small drinks.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with different THC levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Great care was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee subject authenticity.
“Our goal was to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Outcomes revealed a marked reduction in drink consumption after subjects used cannabis:
- Drink intake fell by 19% after consuming 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was even more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent reduction versus the placebo.
Wider Trends and Future Research
Expanded legalization has driven a major surge in cannabis usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
At the same time, drink consumption is at a record low, with many turning to substitutes like weed.
Crucial to note that 40% of study participants met the criteria for alcohol use disorder.
While cannabis might be a possible solution to excessive alcohol use, researchers warn that more research is needed.
“It is premature to tell individuals in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
