Going California Sober: Research Suggests Cannabis Could Assist in Reducing Alcohol Intake
Emerging scientific investigation released in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that adopting a “California sober” method could significantly help individuals reduce their alcohol use.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
Researchers from Brown University conducted a novel experiment where volunteers received marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects had the option to consume up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with varying THC levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure subject realism.
“Our goal was to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to drink,” explained the principal investigator.
Key Findings and Effects on Alcohol Use
Outcomes showed a notable decrease in alcohol intake after subjects smoked cannabis:
- Alcohol intake fell by 19% after using moderate-THC cannabis.
- The drop was even more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the control.
Broader Context and Future Research
Increased legalization has driven a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the last ten years.
At the same time, drink consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to substitutes like marijuana.
Crucial to note that 40% of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
While cannabis could serve as a possible alternative to heavy alcohol use, scientists warn that further research is needed.
“It is premature to advise people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and substitute cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.
