Going California Sober: Research Suggests Cannabis May Assist in Cutting Down Drinking Intake
Emerging scientific investigation released in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method might significantly assist people reduce their alcohol use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Setting
A team of Brown University conducted a novel experiment where participants were provided with marijuana joints to consume before entering a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Subjects could choose to consume up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with different tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Great care was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee participant realism.
“Our goal was to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Impact on Drinking
Outcomes showed a notable reduction in alcohol consumption after participants used marijuana:
- Drink intake fell by 19% after consuming 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was even more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction versus the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Expanded legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the past decade.
Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a historic low, with numerous individuals opting for alternatives like weed.
Crucial to note that forty percent of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While marijuana might be a possible solution to excessive drinking, researchers warn that further research is needed.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author noted.
