Going California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis Could Assist in Reducing Drinking Intake
New scientific investigation released in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method might substantially assist people reduce their alcohol consumption.
The Study and Bar Lab Scenario
A team of Brown University carried out a unique study where volunteers were provided with marijuana joints to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects had the option to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with different THC potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a placebo marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure subject realism.
“We wanted to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the lead researcher.
Key Findings and Impact on Drinking
Results showed a marked decrease in alcohol consumption after subjects used marijuana:
- Drink intake dropped by nineteen percent after using 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was even more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent reduction compared to the control.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legalization has driven a significant rise in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a historic low, with many opting for substitutes like marijuana.
Crucial to note that 40% of study participants met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
While marijuana could serve as a possible solution to heavy alcohol use, scientists caution that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to advise individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
