A 2025 Brown University laboratory study found that, compared with a placebo cannabis, smoking higher-potency THC cannabis was associated with 27% lower alcohol consumption and smoking lower-potency THC cannabis was associated with about 19% lower alcohol consumption during a two-hour ad libitum drinking session.
November 19, 2025
high
statistical
Randomized laboratory experiment in a bar-like setting where participants could drink freely for two hours after smoking cannabis or placebo.
A 2025 Brown University laboratory study reported that participants who smoked THC-containing cannabis delayed initiation of alcohol drinking during a two-hour ad libitum alcohol session compared with participants who received placebo cannabis.
November 19, 2025
high
statistical
Measured time to first drink in a controlled laboratory setting after cannabis or placebo use.
Observational studies have suggested that cannabis use may reduce alcohol cravings and overall alcohol consumption, but observational study designs are more susceptible to confounding than randomized experiments.
November 19, 2025
high
general
Summary of prior literature contrasting findings from observational studies with the methodological strengths of randomized laboratory experiments.