🔗 Share this article California Sober: Study Suggests Marijuana May Assist in Cutting Down Alcohol Intake Emerging research published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a “California sober” approach could significantly assist people lower their drink consumption. Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting Researchers from Brown University conducted a novel experiment where participants received marijuana joints to consume before entering a carefully constructed “bar lab”. Subjects could choose to drink up to eight small drinks. The trial was repeated on three occasions with varying THC potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a placebo marijuana. Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to guarantee participant realism. “Our goal was to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the principal investigator. Significant Results and Impact on Alcohol Use Outcomes showed a marked decrease in alcohol intake after participants smoked marijuana: Drink consumption fell by nineteen percent after using 3.1% THC cannabis. Reduction was more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease compared to the control. Wider Trends and Future Research Expanded legalization has spurred a major surge in marijuana consumption, 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 participants were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder. Although marijuana could serve as a possible alternative to heavy drinking, researchers warn that more research is needed. “We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” the lead researcher noted.