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Emerging scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that adopting a “California sober” method might substantially assist people reduce their alcohol use.

The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario

A team of Brown University conducted a novel study where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to consume before entering a specially designed “bar lab”.

• Subjects could choose to consume up to eight small drinks.
• The trial was conducted on three occasions with varying THC potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis.

Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and beer taps to ensure participant authenticity.

“Our goal was to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to consume alcohol,” explained the lead researcher.

Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use

Results showed a notable reduction in drink intake after participants smoked cannabis:

• Drink consumption dropped by nineteen percent after consuming 3.1% THC cannabis.
• The drop was more pronounced with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease compared to the control.

Broader Context and Additional Studies

Expanded legal access has driven a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.

At the same time, drink consumption is at a record low, with many turning to alternatives like marijuana.

Crucial to note that forty percent of trial subjects were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.

While cannabis might be a possible solution to excessive alcohol use, researchers warn that more study is required.

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