California Sober: Research Indicates Marijuana Could Assist in Cutting Down Drinking Consumption
New scientific investigation released in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach might substantially assist people reduce their alcohol use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario
A team of Brown University carried out a novel experiment where participants received cannabis cigarettes to consume before entering a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Participants could choose to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The experiment was conducted on three occasions with varying THC potencies: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with low light and beer taps to guarantee participant authenticity.
“Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to drink,” explained the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Effects on Drinking
Outcomes showed a marked decrease in drink consumption after participants smoked marijuana:
- Drink intake fell by 19% after consuming moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was even more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the control.
Broader Context and Additional Studies
Expanded legalization has driven a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a historic low, with many turning to substitutes like weed.
It is important to note that forty percent of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While marijuana could serve as a possible solution to excessive alcohol use, researchers warn that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Go ahead and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
