Going California Sober: Research Indicates Marijuana May Assist in Cutting Down Alcohol Consumption
New research released in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a “California sober” approach might substantially help individuals lower their alcohol use.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
A team of Brown University conducted a unique experiment where participants received marijuana joints to consume before entering a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Subjects could choose to consume up to eight small drinks.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, moderate potency, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to guarantee participant realism.
“We wanted to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to drink,” explained the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Effects on Drinking
Outcomes revealed a notable decrease in alcohol consumption after participants smoked marijuana:
- Drink intake dropped by nineteen percent after using moderate-THC cannabis.
- Reduction was more pronounced with high-THC cannabis, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease versus the placebo.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in cannabis consumption, which has doubled over the last ten years.
At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a record low, with many opting for substitutes like marijuana.
Crucial to note that forty percent of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While cannabis might be a potential alternative to excessive drinking, scientists warn that further research is needed.
“We’re not ready to advise individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
