California Sober: Research Indicates Cannabis May Help Reducing Drinking Intake
New scientific investigation released in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that adopting a “California sober” method might significantly help individuals lower their drink use.
The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario
A team of Brown University conducted a unique study where participants were provided with cannabis cigarettes to smoke before entering a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Participants had the option to consume up to 8 small drinks.
- The trial was conducted on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Great care was taken to replicate a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee participant realism.
“We wanted to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to drink,” stated the lead researcher.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Outcomes showed a marked reduction in drink consumption after participants used marijuana:
- Alcohol intake dropped by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC marijuana.
- The drop was more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease versus the control.
Wider Trends and Additional Studies
Increased legalization has driven a major surge in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the past decade.
At the same time, drink use is at a record low, with numerous individuals opting for substitutes like weed.
Crucial to note that 40% of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
While cannabis could serve as a potential alternative to heavy drinking, scientists caution that more study is required.
“It is premature to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.
