A new New Zealand-specific study shows that 60% of those using cannabis and alcohol say the former leads to them drinking less. Māori, men, and young adults aged 21-25 are more likely to be among those whose cannabis use results in less drinking Cannabis is considered to be, on average, less harmful than alcohol, so the substitution effect could be the basis for practical harm-reduction strategies Would legalising cannabis lead to an overall reduction in substance-related harm? This is the “tantalising” prospect teased in a new study into whether cannabis is a substitute or complement for alcohol: 60% of those using both said their cannabis use resulted in drinking less on a “typical occasion”, and also drinking less frequently. The demographic groups more likely to be among this group include Māori (19% more likely than non-Māori), men (14% more likely), and adults older than 21 (28% more likely for the 21-25 age group, compared to the control group of those aged 35+).
A significant proportion also substituted cannabis for methamphetamine: 40% of co-users said using cannabis led to less meth consumption..
