Regional cerebral blood flow in long-term heavy cannabis use

Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured by the 133Xenon inhalation method in nine male chronic cannabis users. The rCBF level in cannabis users was significantly (11%) lower than that of age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Four of the subjects were reexamined after 9-60 days of detoxification and showed a significant (12%) increase of the CBF level at followup. No significant regional flow abnormalities were noted. The global CBF reduction seen in the early phase of detoxification is most likely the consequence of the dysfunction of the central nervous system accompanying chronic cannabis use.