Going California Sober: Research Suggests Cannabis Could Assist in Reducing Drinking Intake
Emerging research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach could substantially assist people reduce their alcohol use.
Research Methodology and Controlled Environment Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a novel experiment where participants received marijuana joints to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Participants had the option to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was repeated on three occasions with varying THC levels: high potency, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar environment, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure participant authenticity.
“We wanted to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to drink,” explained the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Effects on Drinking
Results revealed a notable reduction in drink consumption after subjects used marijuana:
- Alcohol consumption fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC marijuana.
- The drop was more significant with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease versus the control.
Broader Context and Future Research
Expanded legal access has spurred a significant rise in cannabis usage, which has doubled over the past decade.
Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals opting for substitutes like weed.
It is important to note that forty percent of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
While cannabis could serve as a possible alternative to heavy alcohol use, researchers warn that further research is needed.
“It is premature to advise individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author commented.
