California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana Could Assist in Cutting Down Alcohol Intake
New research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could significantly assist people lower their drink use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a unique study where participants received marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Participants had the option to drink up to 8 small drinks.
- The experiment was conducted on three occasions with different tetrahydrocannabinol levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee participant authenticity.
“We wanted to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the lead researcher.
Key Findings and Impact on Drinking
Results showed a marked decrease in drink intake after subjects smoked marijuana:
- Drink consumption fell by nineteen percent after consuming 3.1% THC marijuana.
- The drop was more significant with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the control.
Broader Context and Future Research
Expanded legalization has driven a major surge in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
At the same time, drink use is at a record low, with many turning to alternatives like weed.
It is important to note that 40% of trial subjects met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
Although marijuana could serve as a potential solution to excessive alcohol use, scientists warn that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
