Cannabis News
Does Smoking Cannabis Kill Your Brain Cells, Yes or No? Science Speaks!
As the legalization of recreational marijuana spreads across the United States, there is growing curiosity about its impact on the brain, including concerns about potential harm to brain cells. Just as the prolonged use of alcohol, methamphetamine, and heroin can lead to irreversible brain damage, excessive and extended marijuana use can disrupt the normal functioning of brain cells.
This ultimately affects their ability to transmit messages (a process called brain activity). Using marijuana can damage brain cells, which in turn can manifest as various symptoms throughout the body. Is it true or just urban legend?
Similar to other substances, components of marijuana interact with specific receptors in the brain. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, binds to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, known as cannabinoid receptor type 1 or CB1 receptors. These receptors are linked to nerve pathways in the brain that regulate functions such as memory, appetite, pain management, and mood.
When an individual consumes marijuana, they may experience difficulty maintaining focus and recalling crucial information. This impairment can become more pronounced with prolonged marijuana use, impairing memory and concentration. Additionally, the drug can also impact motor skills. If individuals choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, they put their lives and the lives of others at risk.
While less research has been conducted on adults who initiate marijuana use after adolescence, recent studies have revealed an adverse association between THC and higher-order cognitive functions, such as retaining important information, planning, organizing, solving problems, and regulating emotions and behaviors. Whether these effects are reversible remains uncertain according to current scientific knowledge.
How Cannabis Affects the Brain
Although there is no definitive proof that extended marijuana use results in the death of brain cells, it undeniably has the potential to inflict harm on the brain. THC, the active compound in marijuana, interacts with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, pivotal in governing functions like memory, coordination, emotions, and pleasure.
Persistent and heavy marijuana use can harm these receptors, leading to compromised brain function. The lasting nature of this damage remains uncertain, but it can significantly impact a person’s everyday cognitive abilities.
Below are some prevalent side effects associated with marijuana use concerning the brain:
Effect on Learning and Memory
Over the past few decades, research has demonstrated that prolonged cannabis use leads to a significant decrease in the volume of the gray matter region in the brain. This area is responsible for information processing, memory, and decision-making functions.
Furthermore, another study has found that extended marijuana usage can have an adverse effect on cognitive capabilities. In particular, the research revealed that intensive cannabis consumption reduced the size of the hippocampus and amygdala regions of the brain, potentially having a profound impact on memory and learning abilities.
Impeding Young People’s Brain Development
The use of marijuana has the potential to impede brain development in adolescents and young adults. The human brain undergoes continuous development until well into the late 20s, and marijuana consumption during this critical period can harm this process.
Elevated levels of THC, the active component in marijuana, can disrupt the brain’s normal formation of neural pathways. This disruption can give rise to enduring adverse effects. Rather than causing the death of brain cells, marijuana hampers the development of the brain in individuals who initiate marijuana use at an early age, resulting in a range of cognitive impairments.
Reduction In IQ
A New Zealand study encompassing over 1,000 teenagers conducted IQ tests at age 13 and then again at age 38, examining their drug usage patterns. The results unveiled a noteworthy decline in average IQ points for individuals who used marijuana four or more times a week during this time frame – an average decrease of 8.
This study stands as the inaugural validation that frequent marijuana use, mainly smoking, can reduce intelligence. It highlights the significance of usage frequency in determining the likelihood of enduring or severe side effects.
Mental Health Problems and Addiction
Long-term marijuana use can lead to a significant and concerning side effect: addiction. Individuals who use marijuana over an extended period may develop a dependency on it, resulting in a spectrum of adverse consequences, such as mental health issues, compromised memory, and impaired cognitive function. Seeking addiction treatment can offer a path for individuals to overcome their marijuana dependence and enhance their overall quality of life.
Effect Of Synthetic Marijuana on the Brain
Synthetic Marijuana, a synthetic hallucinogenic substance typically sprayed onto plant material, is not intended for human consumption but has gained popularity recently. Commonly referred to as “Fake Weed,” it induces altered mental states and can lead to unusual behavior. Synthetic Marijuana is illegal and may contain toxic components that can result in an elevated heart rate, unexplained bleeding, and vomiting.
Like natural Marijuana, Synthetic Marijuana affects the brain by binding itself to Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) receptors, which are present in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Synthetic Weed exhibits a much stronger binding affinity to CB1 receptors than THC, rendering it at least 100 times more potent in its impact on the brain.
Because CB1 receptors are distributed throughout various brain regions, the side effects of Synthetic Marijuana can be severe and detrimental. Synthetic Marijuana may cause the brain and body to experience:
Conclusion
Marijuana can induce a sense of relaxation in users, but excessive use or its combination with other substances can pose significant risks. Quitting marijuana use can prove challenging, and if you or someone you care about is struggling to quit and facing life-threatening situations, detoxification and treatment may be necessary.
Treatment involves removing individuals from the triggers that can lead to relapse, while counseling supports those in recovery by helping them understand and address their specific needs. Medications can also be employed to reduce cravings for Marijuana, and detoxification helps rid the body of toxins, restoring it to a healthier state. Assistance related to rehabilitation is readily available, ensuring that no one has to face addiction alone.
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CANNABIS KILLING BRAIN CELLS, WHAT DID THIS OTHER STUDY SAY?
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
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Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
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