While it is inconclusive how and if edibles kill brain cells, that they cause the same neurochemical reactions in the brain as smoking marijuana may be indicative of having similar negative side effects.
This affects the way THC gets into the system as it takes longer for it to reach the bloodstream than if smoked.Īs the amount of THC contained in edibles can vary greatly, how heavily it impacts cannabinoid receptors in the brain can also vary dramatically.
Weed edibles contain a synthesized (oil-based) form of THC which causes similar side effects to marijuana when consumed. There is little research to suggest that consuming THC edibles is more or less likely to cause any long-term effects on brain function. The study also showed that those who abused marijuana heavily in adolescence but quit in adulthood did not recover IQ points and those who only started using marijuana in adulthood lost no IQ points at all. The validity of this information is questionable though, especially when considering the variables that may affect the subjects of these studies such as family environment, genetics, age of first use, frequency and duration of use, length of the study, and whether a marijuana use disorder is present.Ī large study in New Zealand found that continued marijuana abuse starting in adolescence resulted in IQ dropping 6 to 8 points in adulthood. Some studies suggest marijuana abuse starting in adolescence that continues through into adulthood has a link to declines in IQ. Studies into the link between marijuana abuse and a cognitive decline measured in IQ have largely reached inconclusive results. Speak to SAMSHA Does marijuana use affect IQ? SAMHSA has a wealth of information and resources to assist providers, individuals, communities, and states during this difficult time and is ready to help in any way possible. Īt Recovered, we recognize the impact COVID-19 has had and the continued challenges it poses to getting advice and treatment for substance use disorders. However, other studies have not found significant structural differences between the brains of people who do and do not use the drug. Some studies suggest regular marijuana use in adolescence is associated with a reduced volume of specific brain regions involved in a broad range of executive functions such as memory, learning, and impulse control compared to people who do not use. Basic motor skills can also become impaired, making tasks such as driving more difficult and subsequently dangerous.ĭespite the cognitive impairment from smoking marijuana, scientists are still conflicted on the long-term effects of marijuana on the brain. The length of time marijuana is smoked for and in what quantity can lead to memory and concentration becoming impaired. This leads to the person taking marijuana having a reduced ability to focus and recalling important information. When someone smokes or ingests marijuana the THC attaches to the brain's cannabinoid receptors (cannabinoid receptor type 1 or CB1 receptor), affecting hippocampal neurons the area of the brain that controls appetite, pain regulation, mood, and memory. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. There is some evidence to support that the same may be true of marijuana abuse. Prolonged exposure and abuse of substances such as heroin, meth, and alcohol can cause irreversible damage to brain function, especially when abuse starts in youth. Medicinal and legal recreational marijuana use is becoming increasingly prevalent throughout the US, with more states legalizing the substance every year, sparking concern about the drug's effects on the brain. Effects of synthetic marijuana on the brain.
Heavy and frequent users of marijuana may be at higher risk for these neurological effects, especially when they begin using young and continue for many years. Early research suggests that marijuana use (especially in kids and teens) can have lasting negative impacts on the brain, including lower problem solving, cognitive functioning, speed, and memory. Researchers are still finding out more about the long-term impacts of marijuana use on the brain. The toxic components of synthetic marijuana, or “fake weed”, can cause increased heart rate, vomiting, bleeding, and produces powerful mind-altering effects.The study also showed that those who abused marijuana heavily in adolescence but quit in adulthood did not recover IQ points and those who only started using marijuana in adulthood lost no IQ points at all.Some studies suggest regular marijuana use in adolescence is associated with a reduced volume of specific brain regions involved in a broad range of executive functions such as memory, learning, and impulse control compared to people who do not use.
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