🔗 Share this article California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana May Assist in Reducing Alcohol Consumption Emerging research released in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach might substantially help individuals reduce their alcohol consumption. Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting Researchers from Brown University carried out a unique experiment where participants received marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment. Subjects had the option to consume up to eight small drinks. The experiment was conducted on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis. Great care was taken to replicate a real-life bar environment, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure subject realism. “Our goal was to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to consume alcohol,” stated the principal investigator. Significant Results and Impact on Alcohol Use Results showed a notable reduction in alcohol intake after subjects used marijuana: Alcohol intake fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC cannabis. The drop was more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the placebo. Wider Trends and Future Research Increased legalization has driven a significant rise in cannabis usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years. At the same time, alcohol use 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 might be a potential alternative to excessive alcohol use, researchers caution that more study is needed. “It is premature to advise individuals in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.