Going California Sober: Research Indicates Cannabis May Help Reducing Drinking Consumption
New scientific investigation released in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that adopting a “California sober” approach could substantially help individuals lower their drink use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Setting
Researchers from Brown University carried out a unique experiment where volunteers received marijuana joints to consume before entering a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Participants could choose to consume up to eight small drinks.
- The experiment was conducted three separate times with varying THC levels: high potency, 3.1%, and a placebo cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to mimic a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and beer taps to guarantee subject realism.
“Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to drink,” stated the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Impact on Alcohol Use
Results showed a marked decrease in alcohol intake after participants used cannabis:
- Drink intake fell by nineteen percent after using 3.1% THC marijuana.
- The drop was even more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease versus the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Expanded legal access has spurred a major surge in cannabis usage, which has doubled over the past decade.
At the same time, alcohol use is at a record low, with numerous individuals turning to alternatives like marijuana.
Crucial to note that 40% of study participants met the criteria for alcohol dependence.
While cannabis might be a potential alternative to excessive alcohol use, researchers warn that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and substitute marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.
