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Research Paper | Psychology | Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026 | Pages: 38 - 39 | India
The Effects of Cannabis Use on Brain Function
Abstract: Cannabis is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances worldwide, and its increasing legalization has intensified interest in its neurological effects. This paper reviews existing research on how cannabis use affects brain function, focusing on cognitive processes, brain structure, and long-term outcomes. The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interacts with the brain?s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating memory, attention, and emotional processing. Evidence indicates that acute cannabis use impairs cognitive functioning, particularly in areas such as memory and attention (Crean et al., 2011). Long-term use has been associated with structural and functional brain changes, especially in regions such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (Volkow et al., 2014). Adolescents appear particularly vulnerable, with early cannabis use linked to cognitive decline and altered brain development (Meier et al., 2012). However, findings across studies are not entirely consistent, and some research suggests that certain cognitive effects may be partially reversible following sustained abstinence. This paper highlights both the potential risks and the complexities of cannabis-related brain effects and emphasizes the need for further research to better understand long-term consequences and individual variability.
Keywords: cannabis use, brain function, cognitive effects, THC, brain development
How to Cite?: Ashna Saeed, "The Effects of Cannabis Use on Brain Function", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 38-39, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26430144015, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26430144015