California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana May Help Reducing Alcohol Consumption
New research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could significantly help individuals lower their alcohol use.
Research Methodology and Controlled Environment Scenario
A team of Brown University conducted a novel study where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to consume before entering a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects could choose to drink up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with different tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a placebo 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 ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Impact on Drinking
Outcomes showed a marked reduction in alcohol intake after subjects smoked marijuana:
- Alcohol intake fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease versus the placebo.
Wider Trends and Future Research
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the last ten years.
At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a record low, with numerous individuals turning to substitutes like marijuana.
It is important to note that forty percent of trial subjects met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
While marijuana could serve as a potential alternative to heavy alcohol use, researchers caution that more research is needed.
“We’re not ready to advise individuals in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
