Study Reveals Cannabis Can Help Reduce Alcohol Consumption

A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that cannabis may assist individuals in reducing their alcohol consumption. Conducted by researchers at Brown University, the study involved 157 adults aged between 21 and 44 who reported heavy drinking habits alongside regular cannabis use.

To explore the connection between cannabis and alcohol intake, participants spent three days in a simulated bar environment. They were given cannabis cigarettes containing either 7.2% THC, 3.1% THC, or a placebo with 0.03% THC. During the sessions, researchers introduced various alcohol cues, measuring the participants’ responses to both cannabis and alcohol.

Participants were presented with a choice: accept their preferred alcoholic beverage or receive a small cash payment for each drink they declined. Over the course of the two-hour sessions, their blood alcohol levels were raised to approximately 0.10%, in addition to the cannabis consumption.

Impact of THC on Alcohol Consumption

The findings revealed a notable pattern in alcohol consumption among the participants. Those who smoked the lower potency cannabis reported a reduction in alcohol intake of about 19% compared to the placebo group. More significantly, those who used the higher potency cannabis with 7.2% THC experienced a 27% decrease in their alcohol consumption. Additionally, they delayed the onset of their first drink longer than those who consumed the placebo.

According to Jane Metrik, the lead author of the study, the results align with the concept of the substitution effect, often associated with the California sober lifestyle. She stated, “What we found was consistent with this idea of the substitution effect… Cannabis reduced the urge for alcohol in the moment, lowered how much alcohol people consumed over a two-hour period and even delayed when they started drinking once the alcohol was available.”

While the study offers promising insights, Metrik cautioned against hastily recommending cannabis as an alternative for those seeking treatment for alcohol use. “We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for alcohol, go ahead and substitute cannabis, and it will work out for you,” she noted in a discussion with NPR.

Alternatives for Reducing Alcohol Intake

With the holiday season approaching, many individuals may find it beneficial to reflect on their drinking habits. Kaiser Permanente suggests various activities that can help divert attention away from alcohol, including walking, meditation, and engaging in hobbies.

Another approach includes substituting alcoholic beverages with cannabis drinks, a trend supported by the recent study. For instance, brands like Wynk offer THC-infused seltzers that may serve as alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks.

Additionally, strategies such as drinking a glass of water between alcoholic drinks can help slow consumption, while scheduling regular alcohol-free days can further support reduced drinking habits. Resources from Harvard Health emphasize the importance of maintaining a drinking diary and ensuring that alcohol is not readily available at home.

As research continues, those interested in exploring alternatives to alcohol may find comfort in the emerging evidence surrounding cannabis as a potential substitute.