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The short-term and long-term effects of cannabis on cognition: recent findings
The effects of cannabis on memory performance and related alterations in brain activity fade with abstinence. The impact of cannabis use on emotion processing is an important factor to consider herein. The effect of cannabis use on memory function: an update. Subst Abuse Rehabil, 4 (2013), pp. 11-27, 10.2147/SAR.S25869.
Largest Study Ever Done on Cannabis and Brain Function Finds Impact on Memory
AURORA, Colo. (Jan. 28, 2025) – A new study published today in JAMA Network Open explores the effects of both recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks. The study, the largest of its kind ever to be completed, examined the effects of cannabis use on brain activity.Up to 63% of heavy cannabis users throughout thier lives and 68% of recent users had reduced brain activity during a working memory task. Changes in brain activity in recent users were insignificant.
In lifelong cannabis heavy users, affected brain regions included the anterior insula, the medial prefrontal cortex, and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. These areas of the brain have many CB1 receptors that bind to THC, the active ingredient of marijuana. Studies in mice have shown that prolonged THC exposure can reduce CB1 receptors, which may explain why long-term cannabis users had less brain activity in these brain regions.Potential for long-term effects on the brain
Reduction in brain activation suggests possible long-term effects of cannabis use on memory processing, according to the first author of the study, Joshua Gowin, assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado school of Medicine.
The effects of reducing working memory activation can be lasting, he said.
The Impact of Cannabis on the Brain and Mental Health
Table of Contents
Cannabis use has been a subject of extensive research, notably concerning its effects on the brain and mental health. These brain regions play an important role in the way we combine our feelings with our thoughts, especially when making decisions, interacting socially, and managing our emotions.
A 2019 Study published in Lancet Psychiatry found that the daily use of cannabis, especially the forms of high potency of the drug, is strongly linked to the beginning of psychosis. This study underscores the potential risks associated with frequent and high-potency cannabis use.As for the relationship between cannabis use and other mental disorders, Dr. Matthew Sherman, head of outpatient psychiatry for adults and behavioral health at Stony Brook Medicine, told the Epoch Times that, based on his experience, concomitant use of cannabis and mental disorders is predominant and often negatively affects treatment results.
The study also suggests that cannabis abstinence before performing a cognitive task can improve performance. However, Gowin noted that abstinence may have its own set of consequences. “People need to be aware of their relationship with Cannabis, as abstinence at once can hinder their cognition as well. Such as, heavy users may need to be more cautious,” Gowin said.
summary of Key Findings
| Aspect of Cannabis Use | Key Findings |
|———————–|————-|
| Psychosis Risk | High potency cannabis use is linked to the onset of psychosis. |
| Mental Disorders | Concomitant use of cannabis and mental disorders can negatively impact treatment outcomes. |
| Cognitive Performance | Abstinence from cannabis can improve cognitive performance, but abrupt cessation may hinder cognition for heavy users.|
Understanding the complex interplay between cannabis use and mental health is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and public health policies. The data presented in this table summarizes the key findings from recent studies, providing a clear overview of the potential risks and considerations associated with cannabis use.
The Impact of Cannabis on the Brain and Mental Health
Interviewer: we’ve seen several studies revealing how cannabis affects the brain. Coudl you explain the key findings and what regions of the brain are particularly influenced?
Author: Certainly. A meaningful study indicated that in recent cannabis users, changes in brain activity were minor.However, for lifelong heavy users, affected brain regions included the anterior insula, the medial prefrontal cortex, and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. these areas have many CB1 receptors that bind to THC, the active ingredient of marijuana. Studies in mice have shown that prolonged THC exposure can reduce CB1 receptors, which may explain why long-term users had less brain activity in these regions.
Interviewer: How might these changes in brain activity impact users?
Author: Reduction in brain activation suggests possible long-term effects of cannabis use on memory processing. Joshua Gowin, assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, noted that the effects of reducing working memory activation can be lasting. These areas play an essential role in integrating feelings with thoughts, especially when making decisions, interacting socially, and managing emotions.
The Risks and Considerations
Interviewer: Let’s delve into how cannabis use impacts mental health and cognitive performance. What are the main findings?
| Mental Disorders | Concomitant use of cannabis and mental disorders can negatively impact treatment outcomes. |
| Cognitive Performance | Abstinence from cannabis can improve cognitive performance,but abrupt cessation may hinder cognition for heavy users. |
Interviewer: Understanding the interplay between cannabis and mental health is crucial.How can this facts guide treatment strategies and public health policies?
Author: It underscores the importance of tailored treatment strategies. For individuals with mental health conditions, monitoring cannabis use is critical. Public health policies should be informed by these findings to provide better education and support for users, helping them make more informed decisions about their cannabis use.
Interviewer: Are ther any promising directions in current research?
Author: Research is increasingly exploring the differential effects of various cannabinoid compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD), which may offer therapeutic benefits without the psychotropic effects of THC. Investigating these compounds can lead to targeted treatments for specific conditions.
Concluding Thoughts
Interviewer: Summarizing your thoughts, what are the key takeaways from this study and the broader implications of cannabis use on the brain and mental health?
Author: The primary takeaway is that while cannabis use may have immediate recreational effects, long-term and heavy use can lead to significant changes in brain activity, particularly in regions vital for cognitive and emotional processes. This has broader implications for mental health and treatment outcomes, suggesting the need for careful monitoring and tailored strategies for cannabis users, especially those with co-occurring mental health conditions.
