🔗 Share this article Going California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis Could Assist in Cutting Down Drinking Consumption Emerging scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that embracing a “California sober” approach could substantially assist people reduce their alcohol use. Research Methodology and Bar Lab Scenario A team of Brown University conducted a unique study where volunteers were provided with marijuana joints to smoke before entering a carefully constructed simulated bar environment. Subjects could choose to drink up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages. The trial was repeated on three occasions with different THC potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis. Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and beer taps to guarantee participant realism. “Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be really driven to consume alcohol,” stated the principal investigator. Key Findings and Impact on Drinking Outcomes revealed a marked decrease in alcohol consumption after participants smoked marijuana: Drink consumption fell by 19% after using moderate-THC cannabis. The drop was even more pronounced with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the placebo. Wider Trends and Future Research Expanded legal access has driven a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the past decade. At the same time, drink consumption is at a record low, with numerous individuals turning to substitutes like weed. It is important to note that 40% of study subjects met the criteria for alcohol use disorder. While cannabis could serve as a possible solution to heavy alcohol use, scientists warn that further study is needed. “We’re not ready to advise individuals in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” the lead researcher noted.