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Brain Morphology of Cannabis Users With or Without Psychosis: A Pilot MRI Study
Published on: August 18, 2020
Marijuana intoxication and brain activation in marijuana smokers
R J Mathew1, W H Wilson, R E Coleman
1Department of Psychiatry and Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Life Sciences
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Delta9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) increases cerebral blood flow (CBF), particularly in frontal regions. This brain activity change correlates with self-reported marijuana intoxication effects.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Understanding the neurobiological effects of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is crucial.
- Cerebral blood flow (CBF) changes are a key indicator of brain activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of THC on regional CBF in human volunteers.
- To correlate CBF changes with subjective intoxication levels.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 15O-water and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) for regional CBF measurement.
- Administered intravenous THC or placebo in a double-blind manner to 32 marijuana-exposed volunteers.
- Performed scans before and after infusions.
Main Results:
- THC significantly increased CBF, predominantly in bilateral frontal regions, insula, and cingulate gyrus, with greater effects in the right hemisphere.
- Higher THC doses showed significant CBF changes earlier (30 minutes) than lower doses (60 minutes).
- Increased frontal CBF correlated strongly with self-rated THC intoxication, especially in the right frontal region.
Conclusions:
- Acute THC administration leads to increased functional brain activity, particularly in frontal cortical areas.
- Observed CBF changes in the insula and cingulate gyrus may contribute to the subjective experience of marijuana intoxication.
