California Sober: Research Suggests Marijuana Could Assist in Cutting Down Drinking Intake
Emerging scientific investigation released in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method might significantly assist people reduce their drink use.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a unique study where participants were provided with cannabis cigarettes to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects could choose to drink up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was repeated on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, moderate potency, 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 subject realism.
“We wanted to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to drink,” explained the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Drinking
Results showed a notable reduction in alcohol intake after participants smoked cannabis:
- Drink consumption fell by 19% after consuming moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was more significant with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the placebo.
Broader Context and Additional Studies
Expanded legalization has spurred a major surge in marijuana consumption, which has increased twofold over the past decade.
At the same time, drink consumption is at a historic low, with many opting for substitutes like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While cannabis might be a potential alternative to heavy alcohol use, researchers caution that further study is needed.
“It is premature to advise individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and substitute cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.
