The use of weed and alcohol is at an all-time high in the United States. With the legalization of marijuana, it is now a rising concern whether people are drinking alcohol and smoking cannabis simultaneously. Particularly in the case of young adults, it is crucial to inform them of the adverse effects of the consumption of both of these drugs at once.
As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, weed and alcohol are the two most common drugs. A new study from Penn State says that taking marijuana with alcohol can up the risk of heavy drinking. Researchers found that it can increase alcohol-related issues as well as the habit of drinking.
Consuming Alcohol and Marijuana Simultaneously
Ashley Linden-Carmichael, who was part of this research said, “The results suggest that individuals who simultaneously use alcohol and marijuana are at a disproportionately higher risk for heavy, frequent, and problematic substance use.” Using both of these together can lead to problems with perception, cognition as well as motor skills.
The study had 1,017 participants from 49 states who were in the age range of 18 to 25. These individuals were given questionnaires that asked them about their use of alcohol and marijuana separately as well as together. Participants also answered questions regarding the problems they faced by drinking.
Furthermore, researchers asked them about their personality and what they thought of the drinking habits of their friends. The study found that those who consumed alcohol and marijuana together were at a higher risk. This was in comparison to those who just drank alcohol. Those who consumed both the drugs at the same time tended to have more “problems like blacking out, getting in an argument, or other concerns.”
Findings of the Study
Here’s a look at what the scientists concluded:
- 70 percent of the people who used both drugs simultaneously did so twice a week.
- Those who used both the drugs at once drank alcohol more often, for longer stretches of time and in more quantity
- The people who used marijuana and alcohol at one time had a sensation-seeking personality
- They also thought that their friends drank more amounts of alcohol
What Did The Researchers Say?
Scientists who conducted this research work said that programs need to address the topic of using drugs in combination. They need to question students about their use of alcohol and marijuana simultaneously. Authorities must take prevention and intervention measures. They should also ask students about any other drug combinations they do simultaneously. Above everything students need to be educated about the harms of drinking and doing weed at once.
Verdict
It is previously established that consuming alcohol and weed at the same time is harmful. A new research further stamps on this. It says that by doing both these drugs simultaneously, there is a negative impact on your cognitive health and motor skills. It also leads to more drinking and pronounced adverse effects of alcohol. In this regard, it is essential to educate students about not using weed or another drug in combination with alcohol.
