California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana Could Help Cutting Down Drinking Intake
New research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a “California sober” approach might substantially assist people reduce their alcohol consumption.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Scenario
A team of Brown University conducted a unique study where volunteers were provided with marijuana joints to smoke before entering a carefully constructed “bar lab”.
- Subjects could choose to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The experiment was repeated three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol levels: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a 0.03% 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 ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to drink,” explained the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Impact on Drinking
Outcomes showed a notable reduction in drink consumption after participants smoked cannabis:
- Alcohol intake 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.
Wider Trends and Future Research
Expanded legal access has driven a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has increased twofold over the past decade.
At the same time, drink use is at a historic low, with many turning to substitutes like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of trial subjects met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
Although marijuana might be a potential alternative to excessive drinking, researchers caution that more study is required.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals seeking treatment for alcohol, ‘Go ahead and substitute cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” a study author noted.
