🔗 Share this article Going California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana Could Help Reducing Alcohol Intake New research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a “California sober” approach could substantially help individuals reduce their drink use. The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario A team of Brown University conducted a novel study where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to smoke before entering a specially designed simulated bar environment. Subjects had the option to drink up to eight small drinks. The trial was repeated three separate times with different tetrahydrocannabinol levels: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis. Significant effort was taken to mimic a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to ensure subject authenticity. “Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to drink,” explained the principal investigator. Key Findings and Impact on Alcohol Use Outcomes revealed a notable reduction in drink intake after subjects smoked cannabis: Alcohol intake dropped by 19% after consuming moderate-THC cannabis. Reduction was even more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease compared to the placebo. Broader Context and Additional Studies Increased legal access has spurred a significant rise in cannabis usage, which has doubled over the last ten years. At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals opting for substitutes like marijuana. It is important to note that 40% of study subjects met the criteria for alcohol dependence. Although cannabis might be a possible solution to heavy alcohol use, scientists warn that further study is needed. “We’re not ready to advise individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Go ahead and substitute cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author commented.