Going California Sober: Research Indicates Marijuana May Assist in Reducing Drinking Consumption
New scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a “California sober” approach might substantially help individuals reduce their alcohol consumption.
Research Methodology and Controlled Environment Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a novel study where participants were provided with cannabis cigarettes to smoke before entering a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects had the option to drink up to 8 small drinks.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with varying THC levels: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar environment, complete with low light and beer taps to ensure subject realism.
“We wanted to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the principal investigator.
Key Findings and Impact on Drinking
Results showed a notable decrease in alcohol intake after subjects used cannabis:
- Alcohol consumption fell by nineteen percent after consuming 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was more significant with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Expanded legal access has spurred a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a record low, with many turning to alternatives like weed.
It is important to note that forty percent of study participants were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While cannabis could serve as a potential alternative to heavy drinking, researchers warn that more research is required.
“It is premature to advise individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” a study author noted.
