California Sober: Research Suggests Cannabis Could Help Reducing Drinking Intake
Emerging research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach could substantially help individuals lower their alcohol use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario
Researchers from Brown University conducted a novel study where volunteers were provided with marijuana joints to consume before visiting a carefully constructed “bar lab”.
- Subjects could choose to consume up to eight small drinks.
- The trial was repeated on three occasions with varying THC levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure subject authenticity.
“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 Effects on Drinking
Results revealed a marked decrease in alcohol consumption after subjects used marijuana:
- Alcohol intake dropped by nineteen percent after using moderate-THC marijuana.
- The drop was even more significant with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has doubled over the past decade.
Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a record low, with numerous individuals turning to substitutes like weed.
It is important to note that 40% of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While cannabis could serve as a potential solution to heavy drinking, scientists caution that more study is needed.
“We’re not ready to advise individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Go ahead and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
