Going California Sober: Research Indicates Marijuana May Assist in Reducing Drinking Intake
New research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that embracing a “California sober” method could significantly help individuals reduce their drink use.
Research Methodology and Controlled Environment Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a unique experiment where participants were provided with cannabis cigarettes to consume before visiting a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects had the option to drink up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was repeated three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to guarantee participant realism.
“We wanted to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the principal investigator.
Key Findings and Impact on Alcohol Use
Results showed a notable reduction in drink intake after subjects smoked cannabis:
- Alcohol intake fell by 19% after using moderate-THC marijuana.
- Reduction was more significant with high-THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the placebo.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legal access has driven a significant rise in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a historic low, with many opting for substitutes like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of study subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
While cannabis could serve as a potential alternative to heavy alcohol use, researchers caution that further research is required.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
