The decrease in alcohol use seems to extend to abuse as well. In the last few years it is rare for our student infirmary to encounter a student who has become aggressive, disoriented, or physically ill because of excessive use of alcohol. Moreover, any additional harm done in our society by marijuana will have to be balanced against the possible improvement in the health of those alcoholics who switch to marijuana. Dr. Tod Mikuriya, a San Francisco psychiatrist involved in the treatment of alcoholism, has reported that he himself has pointed out to several of his patients the improvements that might result from their switch from alcohol to marijuana use. Though he, of course, could not supply the drug, he has reported that at least some patients, who have found their own sources, have made gratifying improvement.
Cannabis reduces alcohol consumption.