More research needs to be done to understand how marijuana use affects intelligence over time. You might also develop a higher tolerance to pain after smoking weed or consuming THC-infused products. That’s does marijuana kill brain cells why you might have trouble remembering if you smoke weed or eat a THC-infused edible. Calls to numbers marked with (I) symbols will be answered or returned by one of the treatment providers listed in our Terms and Conditions, each of which is a paid advertiser.
It may help to track how frequently you’re using marijuana and how much you’re using at a time so that you have a clear record and can identify if substance use becomes a problem. It can also be beneficial to record how the marijuana is affecting you, such as how it changes your mood or ability to focus. This can make it easier to identify any potential negative side effects and can be a valuable source of information when seeking treatment. Similarly to marijuana, synthetic marijuana affects the brain by attaching itself to the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) found in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Synthetic weed binds more strongly to CB1 receptors than THC, making it at least 100 times more potent in the brain.
Positive and Negatives: Long-Term Effects of Weed
Marijuana has been legalized in 24 states for recreational purposes, and this is likely to increase in the future, with many other states already decriminalizing the substance or allowing it for medicinal use. This normalization has led to some people wondering if weed is truly safe and what effect it can have on the body — specifically the brain. Experts don’t yet have a clear answer to this question, but there is a growing body of research that shows how cannabis use can affect brain health. In this article, we explore what the research says about marijuana use and brain function, the short- and long-term effects of weed, and why responsible use matters.
After prolonged use of synthetic marijuana, brain cell activity is likely to decline with a concurrent increase in negative physiological symptoms like the ones above. Some people who consume cannabis long-term may develop brain fog, lowered motivation, difficulty with learning, or difficulty with attention. Symptoms are typically reversible, though using products with higher THC content may increase risk of developing cognitive symptoms. Long-term and frequent marijuana use probably affects cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and learning, but more research needs to be done to understand how. While the long-term impact of cannabis use is still a subject of debate, if risks are present, using cannabis in moderation is a great way to minimize them. More research needs to be done to fully understand the effects of marijuana on the brain of persistent cannabis users.
There is little research to suggest that consuming THC edibles is more or less likely to cause any long-term effects on brain function. In one 2017 animal study, researchers compared differences in working memory between adult rats exposed to a synthetic cannabinoid and those exposed to glucose during adolescence. Whether cannabis, or marijuana, kills brain cells remains unknown, and current research studies have yielded conflicting results. This can make it harder to weigh the risks against the potential benefits and recognize when substance use is becoming problematic.
The effect of weed on brain structure and function may also depend somewhat on the strain. Higher-potency strains have a stronger effect on the body and brain and may cause more damage with long-term use. Using marijuana can cause damage to brain cells and result in a number of concurrent symptoms throughout the body. Cannabinoids, such as THC, and naturally occurring endocannabinoids may have significant effects on brain function and development. This is because regions of the brain that control memory, learning, motor control, and sensory perception contain high concentrations of CB1 receptors. Consider the potency of the strain you’re using and how the dosage and method of consumption may impact the strength of the side effects.
Does Weed Kill Brain Cells? And 5 Other Things to Know
- Some people who consume cannabis long-term may develop brain fog, lowered motivation, difficulty with learning, or difficulty with attention.
- Cannabis use can have both short- and long-term effects on the brain and cognitive function.
- While limited studies suggest that cannabis might increase the risk of psychosis, most agree that there are often pre-existing genetic factors and other variables.
- More research is needed on these substances to accurately say whether they have a lasting effect on brain function.
These effects appear to be more pronounced among people who start using marijuana at a young age and use it frequently over long periods of time. Studies examining marijuana’s effects on adolescent users report a variety of negative outcomes. In this case, the researchers compared changes in IQ between twins who used marijuana and their abstinent siblings.
What long-term cognitive effects are possible?
This may include approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or prescribing medications. If cannabis use has started to negatively affect your life or your loved ones are expressing their concern, it may be time to get help. The long-term effects of marijuana can have a significant impact on daily functioning and quality of life. If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to seek treatment.
- Yet other studies — including this 2015 study — report no significant differences between the brain shape and volume of daily marijuana users and non-users.
- Find rehab for yourself or a loved one by speaking with a treatment provider.
- This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
- Edmund has an extensive background in SUD research and medical writing, working collaboratively with doctors, substance use disorder specialists, and clinical experts across all content on Recovered.
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Studies evaluating the cognitive effects of long-term marijuana use are ongoing. As legalization has developed across the country, there has been an increase in older adults using cannabis for various reasons. Many have questions regarding how cannabis may affect different ailments, including those related to dementia.
Illegal Drug Addiction
Long-term cannabis users also had smaller hippocampi (the region of the brain responsible for learning and memory). Interestingly, individuals who used cannabis less than once a week with no history of developing dependence did not have cannabis-related cognitive deficits. This suggests there is a range of recreational use that may not lead to long-term cognitive issues. The effect marijuana has on the brain is influenced by the amount a person has smoked and the user’s age. Individuals under 25, whose brains are still developing, are most susceptible to the effects of marijuana on the brain. A study of marijuana’s effect on IQ revealed individuals who began using marijuana at a young age lost 6 to 8 points from their IQ by middle age.
Older adults using cannabis should be aware that cannabis may affect them differently.22 Tell your physician if you experience unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, and be alert to your fall risk. While limited studies suggest that cannabis might increase the risk of psychosis, most agree that there are often pre-existing genetic factors and other variables. If you have a personal or family history that includes any mental disorders, it is best to discuss this with your doctor. Whether you are considering or currently using medical marijuana, following these suggestions can help you achieve your best experience. Remember these guidelines to ensure your cannabis use remains beneficial without compromising brain health. Consumers should speak with their doctor if they have questions or concerns about using cannabis.
Cannabis is an exciting yet controversial topic that has drawn both hype and skepticism. It is important for individuals and healthcare professionals to place emphasis on research studies and not on speculation or personal stories. Emerging studies suggesting the connection between long-term heavy use of cannabis and neurocognition should raise concern for policymakers, providers, and patients. Research into the long-term effects of marijuana use on the brain is ongoing.
They didn’t find any significant differences in IQ decline between the two groups. Genetic factors may also contribute to cognitive decline, as suggested by a longitudinal twin study from 2016. First, it was among the first large, longitudinal (long-term) studies to assess marijuana use and cognitive functioning.
Over the next decade, researchers will use neuroimaging technology to track brain development from late childhood to early adulthood. Gray matter refers to regions of brain tissue that contain nerve cell bodies. These regions control muscle movement, sensory perception, and executive functions, including self-control and decision making. In one 2016 study, researchers compared changes in the IQ scores of adolescent twins when one used marijuana, and the other did not. Those who used marijuana had an average reduction of 4 IQ points by early adulthood. Keep reading to learn more about what current studies have to say about marijuana’s short- and long-term effects on the brain.
