With the increasing legalization of cannabis across the United States, a new study sheds light on the potential adverse effects of excessive consumption. Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus conducted a comprehensive investigation into the impact of cannabis use on brain function, specifically focusing on cognitive tasks related to working memory.

The study, published in JAMA Open Network, involved a large sample of young adults aged 22 to 36. Utilizing brain imaging technology, the researchers examined the neural responses of cannabis users during various cognitive tests, including assessments of working memory, reward processing, emotional regulation, language skills, and motor control.

The findings revealed a notable correlation between cannabis use and reduced brain activity during working memory tasks. Specifically, 63% of individuals with a history of heavy cannabis use and 68% of recent users exhibited diminished brain activity in regions associated with cognitive functions such as decision-making, memory, attention, and emotional processing.

Lead study author Joshua Gowin, PhD, emphasized the importance of understanding the effects of cannabis on health, particularly as its use continues to rise globally. He suggested that refraining from cannabis use before engaging in cognitive tasks could potentially enhance performance. However, he also cautioned against abruptly stopping cannabis use, especially for heavy users, as this could also disrupt cognitive function.

Neurosurgeon Dr. Paul Saphier, MD, while acknowledging the study's large sample size, noted that the proportion of heavy users was relatively small. He expressed interest in seeing further research with a larger cohort of heavy and moderate users to gain more definitive insights. Dr. Saphier also emphasized the importance of moderation in cannabis use, echoing the principle of "everything in moderation."