Cannabis Drinks Are on the Rise — But How Do They Compare to Alcohol?
More than half of Americans now live in states where recreational cannabis is legal. And while alcohol remains the most commonly used substance, daily cannabis use has actually surpassed daily drinking, according to a study analyzing four decades of consumption patterns. Shifting attitudes toward alcohol — along with the introduction of new alternatives — appear to be influencing this change.
Rethinking Your Drinking Habits? You’re Not Alone.
The rise of trends like Dry January and the “sober curious” movement reflects a growing interest, especially among younger adults, in cutting back on alcohol. Alcohol-free beverages have seen a boost in popularity — and one standout category in this wave is cannabis-infused drinks.
“People are looking for ways to unwind and have fun without turning to alcohol,” says Dr. Staci Gruber, an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and director of the Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) Program at McLean Hospital. “Cannabis beverages are becoming a go-to choice for those exploring the ‘Cali sober’ lifestyle.”
Cali sober, short for California sober, is a loosely defined term often used by people who avoid alcohol but still use cannabis. Some even include psychedelics like psilocybin or LSD under this umbrella.
So, What Exactly Are Cannabis-Infused Drinks?
Cannabis drinks are beverages that contain cannabinoids — chemical compounds derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. The plant contains over 100 cannabinoids that interact with receptors in the brain.
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the most well-known cannabinoid. It creates the euphoric “high” and may also help with pain and nausea.
- CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and often associated with calming or therapeutic effects, such as reducing anxiety.
Cannabis is typically classified based on THC content: under 0.3% THC is labeled as hemp, while anything above that is considered cannabis. However, product labels aren’t always accurate or consistent, Dr. Gruber cautions.
Cannabis-infused beverages vary widely in dosage. Research studies often use a standard dose of 5 mg of THC. Some low-dose drinks contain just 2–4 mg per serving, while others can reach up to 200 mg. These drinks may also include caffeine, alcohol, or other additives. Rules about where and how they can be sold — and who can buy them — differ from state to state.
Cannabis Drinks vs. Edibles: What’s the Difference?
Unlike solid edibles like gummies or brownies, cannabis drinks are made with cannabinoids that dissolve in liquid. This allows for quicker absorption through the soft tissues of the mouth and stomach.
“People often report feeling effects from cannabis drinks within 15 to 20 minutes,” says Dr. Gruber. By contrast, traditional edibles typically take 30 to 90 minutes to kick in since they must pass through the digestive system and liver.
What About Compared to Alcohol?
While most people know their limits when it comes to alcohol — whether it’s one beer or a couple of cocktails — cannabis drinks are less predictable. They vary in cannabinoid content, formulation, and added ingredients. That uncertainty can catch people off guard.
Dr. Gruber explains, “If you don’t feel anything right away and drink more, you might unintentionally consume double or triple the THC, which can quickly shift from enjoyable to uncomfortable.”
Some people tolerate high doses well. Others may experience negative reactions from even small amounts — such as anxiety, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, or paranoia.
Are Older Adults at Greater Risk?
They might be. As we age, our metabolism slows, making older adults more susceptible to side effects. After recreational cannabis became legal in California, emergency room visits involving older users increased — a trend also observed in Canada, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
That’s not to say cannabis drinks are inherently riskier than alcohol. Alcohol comes with well-known health risks, too. But cannabis beverages bring more unknowns, particularly for new users.
“If you’re curious and it’s legal where you live, start slow and be intentional,” Dr. Gruber advises. “Get to know how a specific product affects you before consuming more.”
