Marijuana’s Effect on Heavy Drinkers: New Studies Emerge

A growing body of research is beginning to reshape how we view marijuana, not just as a treatment for chronic pain or PTSD, but also as a potential substitute for alcohol among heavy drinkers. According to a new federally funded study, individuals who consumed marijuana before being offered alcohol drank significantly less than they did when alcohol was available alone. This could have profound implications for people struggling with alcohol dependency or those looking for safer ways to manage stress, anxiety, or chronic discomfort.

In Louisiana, where recreational marijuana remains illegal, this news is especially relevant for patients seeking alternatives to alcohol use. With a regulated medical marijuana program in place, patients can legally access therapeutic marijuana as a safer, doctor-recommended option, provided they have a qualifying condition and an active Louisiana medical marijuana card.

A Statewide Concern

Louisiana has long struggled with high rates of alcohol-related health issues. According to the CDC, excessive alcohol consumption contributes to thousands of deaths in the state annually, not to mention rising rates of liver disease, mental health decline, and alcohol-related accidents.

For many Louisianans, alcohol is often used to self-medicate conditions such as PTSD, cancer, or chronic pain; conditions that also happen to qualify for medical marijuana treatment under Louisiana law. The latest findings suggest that marijuana could serve as a harm-reduction strategy for these individuals, helping to reduce alcohol intake and its long-term effects.

How Medical Marijuana Can Help Heavy Drinkers

While marijuana is not a cure for alcohol addiction, studies show it may help some users cut back on their drinking. For patients with qualifying conditions, marijuana can replace alcohol as a safer coping tool. Unlike alcohol, marijuana does not damage the liver, and it doesn’t carry the same risk of physical dependence or long-term organ damage.

In the recent study, researchers found that when marijuana was consumed before alcohol was offered, participants drank less. This trend was particularly noticeable among frequent marijuana users, suggesting the potential for long-term substitution effects.

For patients in Louisiana who are struggling with alcohol-related health issues or looking for a safer alternative, medical marijuana offers a legal and medically supervised pathway to better health.

Marijuana Laws in Louisiana

Louisiana does not have a recreational marijuana program. Possession of marijuana without a medical card remains illegal and can result in fines or criminal charges. The state has a robust medical marijuana program that allows patients to legally obtain marijuana products with up to 2.5 ounces every 14 days.

Qualifying patients must obtain a recommendation from a licensed medical marijuana doctor and purchase products from one of the state’s nine licensed pharmacies - that’s where we come in! Smoking marijuana flower is permitted, as are tinctures, capsules, edibles, and topical applications.

To legally access marijuana in Louisiana, you must be diagnosed with one or more state-approved medical conditions:

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease)

• Cachexia or wasting syndrome

• Cancer

• Chronic Pain

• Concussion

• Crohn's Disease

• Epilepsy

• Glaucoma

• HIV/AIDS

• Hospice or palliative care

• Huntington's Disease 

• Intractable Pain

• Lewy-body dementia

• Motor-neuron disease

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)​

• Muscular Dystrophy

• Non-Epileptic Seizures

• Parkinson's Disease

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Seizure disorders

• Severe muscle spasms

• Spasticity

• Spinal muscular atrophy

• Traumatic brain injury

• Any debilitating condition if a physician believes a patient will benefit

If you suffer from alcohol use disorder or rely on alcohol to manage physical or emotional discomfort, it’s worth talking to a licensed marijuana doctor. Many of the underlying issues, like anxiety, insomnia, or physical pain, may qualify you for legal access to marijuana through Louisiana’s medical program.

Why You Need a Louisiana Medical Marijuana Card

Having a valid Louisiana medical marijuana card gives patients several key advantages. It provides legal protection by allowing possession without the risk of criminal charges and grants safe access to regulated, state-licensed pharmacies. Patients also benefit from medical oversight, receiving expert guidance on dosage, strains, and treatment plans. For those looking to reduce alcohol use, marijuana offers a legal and safer alternative for symptom relief.

A medical marijuana card is the only legal way to access marijuana in Louisiana. Once approved, patients can purchase their medication from licensed pharmacies located in cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, and Lake Charles. These pharmacies offer a variety of products, and their trained staff can help you choose the best options for your specific condition.

Marijuana as a Healthier Alternative

Emerging research is changing the way we think about marijuana, not just as a treatment for chronic illness, but also as a potential alternative to heavy alcohol use. For Louisianans battling alcohol dependency or seeking safer ways to manage qualifying conditions, medical marijuana offers a legal, controlled, and effective option backed by science and regulated by the state.

With studies showing reduced alcohol intake among marijuana users, the time has never been better to explore your options. Louisiana’s medical marijuana program is built to support your journey toward better health, without the legal risk or health consequences of alcohol abuse.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!

Medical marijuana is legal in the State of Louisiana, and you can get your medical marijuana card today! It is now easier than ever to get your card, so if you think marijuana may benefit you, what are you waiting for?

If you aren’t sure if you qualify for a card, we can help! Just give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have.

Marijuana is an excellent alternative medicine that offers natural, safe, and legal relief for an array of symptoms. If you think marijuana could help some of your symptoms, what are you waiting for?

Schedule an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors to see if you qualify for your medical card. Not only will you discuss your condition and options, but you can do so through a virtual appointment in the safety of your own home!

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

At Louisiana Marijuana Card, our mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

Call us at (833) 253-2943, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!