Impact of Heavy Cannabis Use on Brain Function

SOURCE studyfinds.org
Heavy cannabis use may have lasting impacts on cognitive processing, particularly working memory, even after cessation, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open. The research suggests that users may benefit from periods of abstinence before mentally demanding tasks.

Key Points

  • Heavy cannabis use may lead to lower brain activation during working memory tasks
  • Short-term effects of cannabis use were observed on memory and movement tasks
  • Men showed more pronounced effects than women in movement-related brain activity under the influence of cannabis

Pros

  • Provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of heavy cannabis use on brain function
  • Empowers individuals to make informed decisions about cannabis use

Cons

  • Does not definitively prove causation between cannabis use and observed differences in brain function
  • Focused on young adults, so findings may not apply to other age groups
  • Lacked detailed information on timing of heavy cannabis use and consumption methods