🔗 Share this article Going California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana May Help Reducing Drinking Intake Emerging scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach could significantly assist people lower their alcohol use. The Study and Bar Lab Setting A team of Brown University conducted a novel experiment where participants received cannabis cigarettes to consume before entering a specially designed simulated bar environment. Subjects could choose to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages. The experiment was conducted on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a placebo cannabis. Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure subject realism. “Our goal was to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to drink,” explained the principal investigator. Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use Outcomes revealed a notable decrease in alcohol intake after subjects smoked cannabis: Drink intake fell by 19% after using 3.1% THC marijuana. Reduction was even more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease versus the placebo. Broader Context and Future Research Increased legal access has driven a significant rise in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the past decade. Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to alternatives like marijuana. Crucial to note that forty percent of study subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder. Although cannabis could serve as a potential alternative to excessive drinking, researchers warn that more study is required. “We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.