Marijuana plant (stock image). Evidence of a compromised dopamine system has been found in heavy users of marijuana. Credit: © Vasily Merkushev / Fotolia
Evidence of a compromised dopamine system has been found in heavy users of marijuana. Effect similar to other addictions. Lower dopamine release was found in the striatum – involved in working memory, impulsive behavior, and attention. Previous studies have shown that addiction to other drugs of abuse, such as cocaine and heroin, have similar effects on dopamine release, but such evidence for cannabis was missing until now.
“In light of the more widespread acceptance and use of marijuana, especially by young people, we believe it is important to look more closely at the potentially addictive effects of cannabis on key regions of the brai...
Read More
Recent Comments