Going California Sober: Study Indicates Cannabis May Assist in Reducing Drinking Consumption
New scientific investigation published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that adopting a “California sober” method could substantially help individuals lower their alcohol consumption.
The Study and Bar Lab Scenario
A team of Brown University conducted a novel experiment where participants were provided with cannabis cigarettes to smoke before visiting a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Subjects had the option to drink up to eight small drinks.
- The experiment was conducted three separate times with varying THC levels: high potency, 3.1%, and a placebo marijuana.
Great care was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee participant authenticity.
“We wanted to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Effects on Drinking
Outcomes showed a notable reduction in alcohol intake after participants used cannabis:
- Drink intake dropped by 19% after using 3.1% THC marijuana.
- Reduction was more pronounced with high-THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the control.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the past decade.
At the same time, alcohol use is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to alternatives like marijuana.
It is important to note that forty percent of study participants were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
Although cannabis could serve as a possible alternative to excessive drinking, scientists caution that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to advise individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
