1. INTRODUCTION
Cannabis, also known as weed, pot, or marijuana, is commonly inhaled or consumed as edibles like brownies or tea. Although it remains federally illegal in the U.S., many states have legalized or decriminalized it, making cannabis more accessible to people of all ages. As a result, cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in the U.S., with nearly 1 in 5 people having used it at least once in 2019. Have a look at this twd toronto
Despite its widespread use, there are still many unanswered questions about how cannabis affects the brain, especially with long-term use. Researchers are exploring whether cannabis can damage the brain, kill brain cells, or lead to cognitive problems. These concerns are particularly relevant for those who begin using cannabis at a young age or continue using it over many years.
2. WHAT DOES THC DO TO THE BRAIN?
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main active chemical in cannabis responsible for its psychoactive effects, which change brain activity in areas related to thoughts, feelings, and perception. Many users experience short-term sensations such as stress relief, relaxation, happiness, pain relief, and increased appetite. However, THC can also cause temporary problems like difficulty thinking, poor memory, impaired coordination, anxiety, and hallucinations.
3. LONG-TERM EFFECTS ON BRAIN
The long-term effects of cannabis on the brain are still not fully understood. Some research suggests that long-term use may cause memory problems, reduced IQ, and thinking difficulties. It may also increase the risk of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis. However, it is not clear if cannabis directly causes these problems or if other factors, such as the frequency of use or the age when someone starts, play a role.
Studies offer mixed results. Some research shows that brain function begins to return to normal within two days of stopping cannabis use, while other studies suggest lingering effects for up to three weeks. Decision-making, concept formation, and planning may still be impaired in heavy long-term users. But overall, more research is needed to understand the full extent of cannabis’s impact on the brain.
4. DOES CANNABIS LOWER IQ?
There is some evidence that heavy cannabis use in adolescence may lead to a lower IQ, with the loss in IQ points being irreversible. One well-known study from New Zealand, the Dunedin Study, followed over 1,000 people from birth to age 38. The study found that those who used cannabis heavily as teenagers and adults experienced an average drop of eight IQ points and had ongoing issues with attention and memory.
However, not all studies have found the same connection. Other research suggests that factors like impulsivity, risk-taking, or family environment may influence both cannabis use and IQ. Some studies even observed IQ declines in both cannabis users and non-users.
Overall, while some studies raise concerns about the impact of cannabis on the brain, the evidence remains inconclusive. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabis, particularly for those who start using it at a young age.
