California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana May Help Cutting Down Alcohol Consumption
Emerging research released in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach might significantly help individuals lower their alcohol consumption.
The Study and Bar Lab Setting
Researchers from Brown University conducted a novel experiment where volunteers received marijuana joints to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects could choose to consume up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was repeated three separate times with varying THC potencies: 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 participant authenticity.
“Our goal was to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to drink,” explained the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Results showed a notable reduction in alcohol intake after subjects smoked cannabis:
- Alcohol consumption dropped by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC cannabis.
- The drop was even more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the control.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legalization has driven a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has increased twofold over the past decade.
Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to alternatives like marijuana.
Crucial to note that forty percent of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While cannabis might be a possible solution to excessive drinking, researchers warn that more study is required.
“It is premature to tell individuals seeking treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.
