A study on male rats has found that two lesser studied cannabis compounds, cannabinol (CBN) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), significantly reduced voluntary alcohol consumption, with effects lasting several days after treatment ceased.
The research, published in Alcohol and Alcoholism, tested three phytocannabinoids – naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant – on rats that had been given free access to alcohol solutions over several months.
All three compounds tested reduced alcohol intake, CBN and THCV proved most effective. CBN’s effects persisted for three days following the final injection, whilst cannabidiol (CBD) showed only minor impact on alcohol consumption.
Rats were given free access to water and progressively stronger alcohol solutions – starting at 5%, then 8%, and finally 10% – over several months. Only rats that voluntarily consumed high amounts of alcohol (at least 2g/kg/day of ethanol) were included in the group given cannabinoids.
Treatment with CBN and THCV significantly reduced both alcohol intake and preference, though both compounds produced mild sedative effects and slight weight loss at higher doses. CBD, surprisingly, made rats move significantly less and lowered their positive emotional states, measured through ultrasonic vocalisations.
None of the compounds caused distress signals in the rats.
“We conclude that CBN and THCV may have potential in treating AUD [alcohol use disorder],” the study authors said.
The researchers highlighted that the endocannabinoid system plays a significant role in alcohol use disorder development, but previous clinical trials using synthetic substances to block cannabinoid receptors failed due to severe psychiatric side effects, prompting the need for safer, naturally occurring alternatives.
The team also noted that all three compounds work by interacting with both the CB1 receptor and other biological targets, and this could potentially treat different stages of AUD, such as maintenance, withdrawal, or relapse prevention.
“CBN may not be effective in relapse prevention; however, it might be effective as a substitution therapy in chronically drinking individuals,” the study said.
“CBD may not be effective as a substitution therapy but may have beneficial effects on prevention of reinstatement of alcohol seeking.”
While the researchers note that the study was limited by only testing on male rats, previous research has shown that cannabis can reduce alcohol consumption in humans.
A November 2025 randomised, double-blind, controlled trial found that after smoking joints containing THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), participants’ alcohol consumption decreased significantly compared to those who received a placebo. A January 2025 study showed that a single 800mg dose of orally administered CBD was effective in reducing alcohol cravings in people with AUD.
