California Sober: Research Suggests Cannabis Could Assist in Cutting Down Alcohol Consumption
New scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach might significantly assist people lower their alcohol use.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a novel study where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to consume before entering a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Participants could choose to drink up to 8 small drinks.
- The experiment was repeated on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a placebo marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure subject authenticity.
“Our goal was to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the principal investigator.
Key Findings and Effects on Drinking
Results showed a notable decrease in alcohol intake after participants smoked marijuana:
- Drink consumption dropped by 19% after using 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the placebo.
Wider Trends and Future Research
Expanded legalization has spurred a major surge in cannabis consumption, which has doubled over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a historic low, with many turning to alternatives like weed.
It is important to note that forty percent of study participants were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
Although cannabis could serve as a possible alternative to heavy drinking, researchers caution that more study is required.
“It is premature to advise people seeking treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
