California Sober: Research Indicates Marijuana May Help Cutting Down Drinking Consumption

Emerging research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could significantly help individuals reduce their drink consumption.

The Study and Controlled Environment Setting

A team of Brown University conducted a novel study where participants received marijuana joints to consume before entering a carefully constructed “bar lab”.

• Participants had the option to drink up to eight small drinks.
• The trial was repeated three separate times with different tetrahydrocannabinol levels: 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 participant realism.

“We wanted to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to drink,” explained the lead researcher.

Key Findings and Impact on Alcohol Use

Outcomes showed a marked decrease in drink consumption after subjects used marijuana:

• Drink consumption dropped by nineteen percent after using moderate-THC marijuana.
• Reduction was more pronounced with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease compared to the control.

Broader Context and Future Research

Expanded legalization has driven a significant rise in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the past decade.

Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a record low, with numerous individuals opting for alternatives like marijuana.

It is important to note that forty percent of study subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.

While marijuana could serve as a possible alternative to heavy drinking, researchers warn that further research is needed.

“It is premature to advise individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.