The question "Does weed kill brain cells?" has been debated for years, with research offering mixed results. However, some studies suggest that chronic marijuana use, particularly in adolescents, may affect brain development and lead to changes in brain structure. This article will shed light on how chronic marijuana use affects brain development among adolescent cannabis users and its impact on cognitive function.
NUMA Recovery Centers is a Los Angeles-based detox center that offers affordable comprehensive treatment for people struggling with substance abuse, particularly cannabis use. In addition to various detox programs, we provide therapy for relapse prevention and continuous support to ensure recovery from addiction. Contact NUMA Recovery Centers today.
Quick Points
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Adolescent cannabis use can negatively impact brain development, resulting in poor cognitive functioning and, upon reaching midlife, IQ decline.
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Long-term cannabis use in adolescents can impair cognitive function, slow down psychomotor speed, and alter brain structure, particularly the frontal cortex and cerebellum.
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While research shows that adolescent cannabis use negatively affects the brain, it seems that weed does not kill brain cells. This is due to the process of how the brain interacts with the cannabinoids from the THC does not result in cell death.
Can Marijuana Affect Brain Development in Adolescents?
Adolescence is a critical period for brain development. However, during this phase, many adolescents experiment with cannabis use. Research has shown that frequent marijuana use is linked to potential long-term effects on cognitive function and brain structure, as the adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to the effects of marijuana.
Studies indicated that heavy marijuana use during these formative years can lead to poorer cognitive outcomes and an increased risk of mental health issues. Given how marijuana affects the developing brain, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks associated with early and frequent use.
Weed and Brain Development: Is It Harmful?
The effects of weed on brain development are most distinct in adolescent users. Research shows that frequent cannabis use during adolescence can disrupt the normal development of brain cells, particularly in regions responsible for decision-making, memory, and learning.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of how frequent cannabis use can affect the brain. Regardless, current evidence suggests that adolescent marijuana use can have lasting impacts on cognitive functioning and may contribute to structural brain changes.
Impact of Weed on Brain Structure and Function
There have been several studies concerning the long-term effects of marijuana use on cognitive functioning and brain structure. Some of these findings include the following:
Impairment of Cognitive Function
Weed has a significant impact on adolescent brain structure and cognitive functioning as shown in some peer-reviewed studies. The study has demonstrated that chronic cannabis use can lead to poorer cognitive outcomes, including diminished verbal memory and learning abilities.
Slowed Psychomotor Function
Another study published in the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society claimed that heavy marijuana use during adolescence can lead to poorer psychomotor speed, sustained attention, and cognitive inhibition. Experts further suggested that the effects of marijuana use as far as cognitive slowing is concerned, is more pronounced in male marijuana users than females.
Altered Brain Structure
Peer-reviewed studies have shown that chronic cannabis use, particularly in adolescents, has shown findings of changes in brain structure among heavy cannabis users. These structural changes were present in certain parts of the brain, including the frontal cortex and parts of the cerebellum. Structural neuroimaging correlates from recent research confirm these alterations, emphasizing the significant impact of heavy cannabis use on brain morphology.
Cognitive Decline at Midlife
A study conducted for four decades and involving over 900 people revealed that the long-term effects of marijuana use can result in IQ decline at midlife. Persistent cannabis users, especially those with chronic marijuana use at age 45, exhibited cognitive impairments and an IQ decline of 5.5 points from childhood, including smaller hippocampal sub-regions. The hippocampus is the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning.
How Does Weed Kill Brain Cells: What Science Says
Research on whether weed kills brain cells remains inconclusive and warrants further study. While tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active compound in marijuana, has been shown to induce cell death in lab experiments, these findings have not been replicated in living animals or humans.
Additionally, the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—which responds to cannabinoid consumption—triggers the activation of astrocytes. These astrocytes possess neuroprotective properties that may help prevent healthy cell death. However, this does not discount the harmful effects of marijuana on adolescent users, whose developing brains are particularly vulnerable.
Long-Term Health Risks: How Weed Affects Overall Health
Smoking weed, particularly over the long term, can have adverse effects on your overall health. Some of these health risks include:
Heightens Risk of Mental Health Disorders
Chronic marijuana use may increase the risk of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis, which is particularly concerning for adolescents whose brains are still developing. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), cannabis use disorder is a significant risk factor for developing these conditions.
Increases Risk of Drug Abuse
Sometimes referred to as the “gateway drug,” marijuana use can increase the risk of drug abuse, not just on cannabis, but also on other drugs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) emphasizes the importance of monitoring for signs of dependency to prevent the escalation of cannabis use disorder and other substance use disorders.
Impacts Respiratory Health
Smoking weed, especially over a long period, can lead to respiratory issues like bronchitis and other concerns. Additionally, the inhalation of smoke can irritate the lungs, which can lead to symptoms like coughing and increased mucus production.
Increases Risk of Cardiovascular Problems
Medical associations have cautioned that smoking weed has been associated with coronary artery risk development. Moreover, the psychoactive effects of THC can cause a temporary increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which may exacerbate long-term cardiovascular problems, especially in older adults with pre-existing conditions.
Detoxing from Cannabis: Withdrawal Symptoms
Stopping cannabis use can result in the onset of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be classified into common and severe symptoms, which include:
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
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Irritability
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Insomnia
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Loss of appetite
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Fatigue
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Difficulty concentrating
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Headaches
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Nausea
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Sweating
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Chills
Severe Withdrawal Symptoms
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Intense cravings
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Restlessness
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Gastrointestinal issues (stomach cramps and diarrhea)
How Can NUMA Help?
NUMA Recovery Centers acknowledge how the harmful effects of marijuana use can affect young adults, particularly those who started smoking weed during their early teens. As a detox and rehab center, we specialize in treating various addiction disorders, including alcohol and cannabis use disorders, to mental health concerns like co-occurring disorders.
Whether you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, now’s the time to end that addiction and start a new chapter of your life. Visit NUMA Recovery Centers today and embark on the path to full recovery.
Adam Zagha
