Going California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana Could Help Cutting Down Drinking Consumption
Emerging scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that embracing a “California sober” approach might significantly assist people reduce their alcohol use.
The Study and Bar Lab Scenario
A team of Brown University carried out a unique experiment where volunteers received marijuana joints to smoke before entering a specially designed “bar lab”.
- Participants could choose to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with dim lighting and beer taps to guarantee subject authenticity.
“Our goal was 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
Results showed a notable decrease in alcohol consumption after subjects used cannabis:
- Drink intake dropped by nineteen percent after using moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was even more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent reduction versus the placebo.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Expanded legalization has driven a major surge in marijuana consumption, which has increased twofold over the past decade.
Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to substitutes like weed.
Crucial to note that 40% of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While cannabis could serve as a possible solution to heavy drinking, scientists caution that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals seeking treatment for alcohol, ‘Go ahead and substitute cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
