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Visual function and vehicle driving performance under the effects of cannabidiol: A randomized cross-over experiment
Sonia Ortiz-Peregrina1, Francesco Martino1, Miriam Casares-López1
1Department of Optics, Laboratory of Vision Sciences and Applications, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
Addiction (Abingdon, England)
|January 6, 2025
Summary
Vaporized cannabidiol (CBD) did not significantly impair simulated driving performance or visual function in occasional users. This study found no adverse effects on overall driving scores or most visual tests after consuming CBD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Cannabidiol (CBD) use is increasing globally.
- Understanding CBD's effects on cognitive and visual functions is crucial for public safety.
- Previous research on cannabis and driving is extensive, but CBD-specific data is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of vaporized CBD on visual function.
- To assess the effects of vaporized CBD on simulated vehicle driving performance.
- To investigate potential correlations between visual function changes and driving impairment.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study design.
- Thirty healthy participants with valid driving licenses and occasional cannabis/CBD use.
- Administration of vaporized placebo, 16 mg CBD (15%), and 32 mg CBD (30%) in separate sessions.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in overall driving performance score (ODPS) were observed with either CBD dose compared to placebo.
- Visual functions remained largely unaffected, except for a statistically significant decrease in motion detection.
- Secondary driving parameters, including lateral control and reaction time, showed no significant differences.
Conclusions:
- Vaporized CBD, at doses of 16 mg and 32 mg, does not appear to impair simulated driving performance.
- The study suggests minimal impact on visual function, with motion detection being a potential exception.
- Further research may be warranted to explore subtle effects on specific visual or cognitive tasks.
