🔗 Share this article California Sober: Research Indicates Marijuana May Help Reducing Drinking Intake New scientific investigation published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method might substantially help individuals lower their alcohol use. The Study and Controlled Environment Setting A team of Brown University carried out a unique study where participants received marijuana joints to smoke before entering a carefully constructed “bar lab”. Participants could choose to consume up to eight mini alcoholic beverages. The trial was conducted on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol levels: high potency, 3.1%, and a placebo marijuana. Great care was taken to mimic a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure subject realism. “Our goal was to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the principal investigator. Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use Outcomes showed a notable reduction in alcohol intake after participants used marijuana: Alcohol intake fell by 19% after using moderate-THC cannabis. The drop was even more significant with high-THC cannabis, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease versus the placebo. Broader Context and Future Research Increased legalization has spurred a major surge in marijuana usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years. At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a record low, with numerous individuals opting for alternatives like weed. It is important to note that forty percent of study participants met the criteria for alcohol use disorder. Although marijuana might be a possible alternative to excessive drinking, scientists caution that more study is needed. “We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author commented.