Smoking weed might seem harmless to many, but new studies suggest it could be having more profound effects on the brain. Recent research highlights dopamine changes linked to cannabis use, showing patterns similar to those witnessed in psychosis patients. Here’s what you need to know about this development and what it could mean for cannabis users.

ER Visits and Rising Concerns

It’s no secret that cannabis use has surged in popularity, particularly with increasing legalisation worldwide. However, this trend has also brought some alarming statistics. For instance, emergency room visits due to cannabis use among individuals over 65 have reportedly skyrocketed. Some of these individuals are now up to 72% more likely to develop conditions like dementia.

While these findings apply broadly, another pressing concern involves cannabis and dopamine. The latest study provides a closer look at what happens in the brain with heavy or habitual cannabis use.

Study Highlights Dopamine Changes Linked to Cannabis

A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry revealed that people diagnosed with cannabis use disorder show changes in their dopamine system. This disorder occurs when cannabis consumption begins to interfere with everyday life and causes dependency.

Using MRI scans, researchers observed increased dopamine activity in the midbrain. This part of the brain plays a significant role in regulating motivation and reward processing. Interestingly, these patterns of dopamine dysregulation closely mirror those found in individuals experiencing psychosis.

Why does this matter?

The dopamine changes are significant because they underpin psychotic symptoms like hallucinations and distorted thinking. The more severe a participant’s cannabis consumption, the more pronounced the dopamine changes appeared, pointing to a dose-response relationship.

This finding reinforces previous studies that have already linked frequent cannabis use with an elevated risk of psychosis. For example, research highlighted the heightened risk of psychosis among those who frequently consumed high-potency cannabis products.

“We hope this research informs young people about the potential risks of heavy cannabis use, particularly those already predisposed to conditions like psychosis,” shared lead researcher Jessica Ahrens of McGill University.

The Illusion of Control

One of the most striking findings from the study is how cannabis users perceive their habits. Even though participants met the clinical criteria for cannabis use disorder, many reported experiencing very few problems caused by their habit.

This difference between perception and measurable harm adds another layer of risk. Individuals often feel they are in control, while their brain function tells a very different story.

A Growing Issue in a Legal Weed World

With cannabis becoming legal in more regions, access has expanded dramatically. This raises concerns for healthcare professionals, as more individuals than ever are experimenting with cannabis use.

Critics argue that normalising cannabis might mask its potential risks, particularly for vulnerable groups. While some claim cannabis to be a “safer” alternative to other substances, recent studies also suggest it may speed up ageing and even increase cancer risks.

What We Know About Psychosis and Cannabis

Linking cannabis use to psychosis is not entirely new. Researchers have previously demonstrated that heavy cannabis users are more likely to experience psychotic episodes, even if they have no genetic predisposition for mental health conditions. The mechanism appears to stem from cannabis’s impact on dopamine regulation in the brain, disrupting normal cognitive and emotional processing.

But what’s more concerning is the fact that many young adults don’t consider cannabis to be harmful. This perception not only promotes its regular use but could also increase the likelihood of long-term psychological damage.

Balancing Cannabis Education: Risks, Research, and Public Health

The study’s findings highlight the pressing need for better education around the risks of cannabis use. With increased dopamine activity closely resembling that of psychosis patients, it’s critical to encourage informed discussions about cannabis consumption.

Medical professionals continue to call for more rigorous and unbiased research, especially given the growing global cannabis market. Yet, funding and regulatory barriers pose significant challenges, leaving many questions about cannabis’s broader effects unanswered.

While current trends favour legal cannabis markets, the potential risks should not be overlooked. This study demonstrates the importance of balanced public education initiatives that highlight the consequences of excessive cannabis use without demonising legalisation. It also serves as a reminder of the critical role healthcare professionals play in identifying and addressing dependency issues early.

Source: NY Post