🔗 Share this article California Sober: Research Suggests Marijuana May Assist in Cutting Down Drinking Consumption Emerging research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could significantly help individuals reduce their drink consumption. The Study and Controlled Environment Setting Researchers from Brown University carried out a unique experiment where participants received cannabis cigarettes to consume before entering a specially designed “bar lab”. Participants had the option to drink up to 8 small drinks. The experiment was repeated three separate times with different THC levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis. Significant effort was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure subject authenticity. “Our goal was to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to consume alcohol,” stated the lead researcher. Key Findings and Impact on Drinking Outcomes showed a notable decrease in alcohol consumption after participants smoked marijuana: Drink consumption fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC cannabis. Reduction was more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the control. Broader Context and Additional Studies Expanded legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has doubled over the past decade. Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a record low, with numerous individuals opting for alternatives like marijuana. Crucial to note that forty percent of trial subjects met the criteria for alcohol use disorder. Although cannabis could serve as a possible alternative to excessive alcohol use, scientists warn that more research is required. “It is premature to advise people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.