Going California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana Could Assist in Cutting Down Alcohol Intake
New scientific investigation released in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that embracing a “California sober” method could substantially assist people reduce their alcohol consumption.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Scenario
Researchers from Brown University carried out a novel experiment where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to smoke before visiting a carefully constructed “bar lab”.
- Participants had the option to drink up to eight small drinks.
- The experiment was repeated on three occasions with varying THC potencies: high potency, moderate potency, and a placebo marijuana.
Great care was taken to mimic a authentic bar environment, complete with dim lighting and beer taps to ensure subject authenticity.
“We wanted to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to consume alcohol,” explained the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Results revealed a notable decrease in drink intake after participants used cannabis:
- Alcohol intake fell by 19% after using moderate-THC cannabis.
- Reduction was more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the control.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
At the same time, alcohol use is at a record low, with numerous individuals opting for substitutes like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
Although marijuana could serve as a potential alternative to heavy drinking, researchers caution that further study is required.
“It is premature to advise individuals seeking treatment for alcohol, ‘Go ahead and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
