🔗 Share this article

New scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach could substantially help individuals reduce their drink use.

The Study and Bar Lab Setting

A team of Brown University conducted a unique study where participants received marijuana joints to consume before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment.

• Participants had the option to drink up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
• The experiment was conducted on three occasions with different THC levels: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a 0.03% cannabis.

Great care was taken to mimic a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee subject realism.

“Our goal was to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the lead researcher.

Significant Results and Impact on Alcohol Use

Results revealed a notable decrease in drink consumption after participants smoked marijuana:

• Alcohol consumption fell by 19% after using moderate-THC cannabis.
• The drop was even more pronounced with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the placebo.

Broader Context and Future Research

Expanded legalization has spurred a major surge in cannabis consumption, which has doubled over the past decade.

Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a record low, with many opting for substitutes like weed.

Crucial to note that 40% of trial participants met the criteria for alcohol use disorder.

While cannabis might be a potential solution to heavy drinking, scientists warn that further research is needed.

“We’re not ready to advise people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and substitute cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.