Cannabis Use Does Shrink parts of the Brain…in Some People

“The brain is obviously affected by cannabis, detrimentally for some. The hippocampus in particular may be especially sensitive to the impact of heavy cannabis use, given its high concentration of cannabinoid receptors type1. But does regular use change the size of the hippocampus? Apparently in those with a genetic predisposition.”

- Dr. David Hepburn

Abstract:

Cannabis use and dopaminergic gene polymorphism had both distinct and interactive effects on the hippocampus.

Emergingalterations of hippocampal total and specific subregional volumes were found in cannabis users relative to controls (i.e., CA1, CA2/3, and CA4), and associations between cannabis use levels and total and specific subregional volumes.

Furthermore, total hippocampal volume and the fissure subregion were affected by cannabis×DAT1 polymorphism (i.e., 9/9R and in 10/10R alleles), reflecting high and low levels of dopamine availability.

Read full article here:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5797324/

Visit 

Dr. Dave Hepburn website: https://doctordavidhepburn.com

Brain Abnormalities in Adults and Early Use of Cannabis

“As though we need any more reasons to be concerned about the heavy use of cannabis in adolescence, thinning of the brain comes along. Negative effects of chronic adolescent CB use on the hippocampal structure are maintained well into late life. Because hippocampal-cortical loss underlies and exacerbates-related cognitive decline, the findings have profound implications for aging adults with a history of early life usage. A critical brain region the hippocampus (HC), where there is a striking intersection between high concentrations of cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors and age-related pathology. They Also Underscores The Persistent Nature of adolescent-induced brain changes due to CB use, and the rising need to understand how these changes interact with brain aging.”

- Dr. David Hepburn

Abstract:

Legalization of cannabis (CB) for both medicinal and, in some states, recreational use, has given rise to increasing usage rates across the country.

Of particular concern are indications that frequent CB use may be selectively harmful to the developing adolescent brain compared with adult-onset usage. However, the long-term effects of heavy, adolescent CB use on brain structure and cognitive performance in late-life remain unknown.

A critical brain region is a hippocampus (HC), where there is a striking intersection between high concentrations of cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors and age-related pathology.

Read the full article here:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6290479/

Visit

Dr. Dave Hepburn website: https://doctordavidhepburn.com

No Change in Hippocampus Volume With Youth Cannabis Users

“A number of studies have found evidence of structural brain changes in teens and young adults who smoke marijuana, however is research indicates that there are no changes into adulthood in the hippocampus (memory).”

-    Dr. David Hepburn 

Abstract:

Cannabis exposure, particularly heavy cannabis use, has been associated with neuroanatomical alterations in regions rich with cannabinoid receptors such as the hippocampus in some but not in other (mainly cross-sectional) studies. However, it remains unclear whether continued heavy cannabis use alters hippocampal volume, and whether an earlier age of onset and/or a higher dosage exacerbate these changes.

Read full article here:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28741422

Dr. David Hepburn website: https://doctordavidhepburn.com