Study: Cannabis-Infused Beverages Linked to Reduced Alcohol Use and Fewer Binge Drinking Episodes

A new study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs finds that marijuana-infused beverages may help some adults cut back on alcohol consumption, adding to a growing body of research on substitution effects between marijuana and alcohol. The research was conducted by scientists from the University at Buffalo and focused on whether marijuana beverages are associated with changes in drinking behavior among adults who already use marijuana. As marijuana-infused drinks continue to expand in legal markets, researchers examined whether these products could serve as an alternative for individuals looking to reduce their alcohol intake.

The study analyzed survey responses from 438 anonymous adults who reported using marijuana within the past year. Participants completed questions related to both marijuana use and alcohol consumption, using standardized measures drawn from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Researchers compared alcohol use between those who consumed marijuana beverages and those who did not, as well as drinking patterns before and after respondents began using marijuana drinks.

About one-third (33.6%) of respondents used cannabis beverages, typically consuming one per session.

“Users were more likely to report substituting cannabis for alcohol (58.6%) than non-users (47.2%)”, states the study. “They also reported fewer weekly alcoholic drinks after starting cannabis beverages (M = 3.35) compared to before (M = 7.02), and binge drank less frequently (80.7% reported less than monthly or never, vs. 47.2% before).” Those who cited reducing other substance use were more likely to use cannabis beverages (45.8%).

“Findings suggest cannabis beverages may support alcohol substitution and reduce alcohol-related harms, offering a promising alternative for individuals seeking to lower alcohol intake”, concludes the study.