Previous research has shown that adolescents and young adults tend to use alcohol and marijuana simultaneously. This is concerning in young adults and previous research has shown that those who use these substances simultaneously use them more frequently. The current study looks at if consequences are more likely with simultaneous use along with if those consequences are due to alcohol, marijuana, or their simultaneous use.
The final sample of participants included 1,390 students between the ages of 18-24 from three different state universities. Students completed online surveys asking about alcohol and marijuana use in the past three months. This measured individual use and if they used the substance together along with heavy episodic drinking in the past 30 days. They also asked participants about consequences they experienced with their substance use in the past 3 months. Finally, they asked personality and behavioral control questions along with sociodemographic questions.
Results showed that number of consequences was higher for those participants who were using the substances simultaneously. Alcohol-only users experienced the least amount of consequences. Number of consequences were higher for greater past 30-day heavy drinking, past 3-month marijuana use, being delinquent, higher positive urgency, and being 21 or older. They also found that those who used both substances together more frequently experienced more consequences. Simultaneous users were more likely to have a DUI, blackouts, and cognitive consequences. In those using both substances, it was also found that the consequences were more likely to be attributed to the alcohol use. Knowing the added risks and consequences of simultaneous use is important when providing targeted preventions and intervention for college students and other young adults.
Take Away: Young adults have been known to use alcohol and marijuana simultaneous along with using them more frequently. The current study looks at if consequences are more likely with simultaneous use along with if those consequences are due to alcohol, marijuana, or their simultaneous use. The study included 1,390 young adult college students that were asked about marijuana and alcohol use along with consequences, personality and behavioral controls, and sociodemographics. Results showed that number of consequences was higher for those participants who were using the substances simultaneously. In those using both substances, it was also found that the consequences were more likely to be attributed to the alcohol use.