Going California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana Could Assist in Cutting Down Drinking Intake
New scientific investigation released in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that adopting a “California sober” approach might substantially help individuals lower their alcohol consumption.
The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario
A team of Brown University conducted a unique experiment where volunteers were provided with marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects could choose to drink up to 8 small drinks.
- The experiment was conducted on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee subject authenticity.
“Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Drinking
Outcomes showed a marked decrease in drink consumption after subjects smoked marijuana:
- Alcohol consumption dropped by 19% after consuming 3.1% THC cannabis.
- The drop was more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction versus the placebo.
Broader Context and Additional Studies
Expanded legalization has driven a major surge in cannabis usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a record low, with many opting for alternatives like weed.
It is important to note that forty percent of study subjects met the criteria for alcohol use disorder.
While marijuana could serve as a possible solution to excessive alcohol use, scientists caution that more research is needed.
“We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
