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Emerging research released in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a “California sober” method might substantially assist people reduce their alcohol consumption.

The Study and Bar Lab Setting

Researchers from Brown University conducted a unique study where volunteers were provided with cannabis cigarettes to smoke before visiting a carefully constructed “bar lab”.

• Subjects could choose to drink up to 8 small drinks.
• The trial was repeated on three occasions with different THC potencies: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a 0.03% marijuana.

Great care was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with low light and beer taps to ensure participant realism.

“Our goal was to ensure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to drink,” stated the lead researcher.

Key Findings and Impact on Alcohol Use

Outcomes revealed a marked reduction in drink consumption after subjects smoked marijuana:

• Alcohol intake fell by nineteen percent after using 3.1% THC marijuana.
• The drop was more significant with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease compared to the control.

Broader Context and Additional Studies

Expanded legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has increased twofold over the past decade.

At the same time, drink use is at a record low, with many opting for alternatives like weed.

Crucial to note that 40% of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.

While marijuana might be a possible alternative to excessive drinking, scientists warn that more study is required.

“We’re not ready to tell individuals in treatment for alcohol, ‘Go ahead and substitute marijuana, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author commented.