California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis Could Assist in Reducing Alcohol Consumption
New scientific investigation published in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that adopting a “California sober” method could significantly help individuals lower their alcohol use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Setting
Researchers from Brown University carried out a novel study where participants were provided with marijuana joints to consume before visiting a carefully constructed “bar lab”.
- Participants had the option to consume up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol levels: high potency, 3.1%, and a placebo cannabis.
Great care was taken to replicate a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap 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.
Key Findings and Impact on Drinking
Results showed a marked reduction in alcohol intake after participants smoked marijuana:
- Alcohol consumption dropped by nineteen percent after using 3.1% THC marijuana.
- Reduction was more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent reduction versus the control.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Expanded legal access has driven a major surge in marijuana 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 marijuana.
Crucial to note that 40% of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
Although cannabis could serve as a possible solution to heavy drinking, researchers warn that further research is needed.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and substitute cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author commented.
