A new simulation reveals how cannabis interacts with the brain to produce the sensation of being high and the potential side effects it can cause.
Regular cannabis use is associated with several serious side effects, including conditions like psychosis and an increased risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Occasional cannabis use is generally considered less dangerous compared to other illegal substances, such as cocaine or ecstasy, which also carry the risk of being mixed with other harmful substances.
However, habitual cannabis use can lead to the development of health issues over time, including a concerning side effect that has recently been highlighted.
This condition is known as cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), which can cause symptoms such as nausea.
Dr. Chris Buresh, an emergency medicine specialist, stated: “Some people say they’ve used cannabis without a problem for decades. Or they smoke pot because they think it treats their nausea.
“It seems like there’s a threshold when people can become vulnerable to this condition, and that threshold is different for everyone.
Even using in small amounts can make these people start throwing up.”
A YouTube video from Carleton University now explains how the interaction between cannabis and the brain contributes to these health issues, focusing especially on mental health side effects.
The video clarifies that the process revolves around the endocannabinoid system, where active chemicals in cannabis disrupt this brain region.
The endocannabinoid system is vital for regulating mood, memory, and stress in the brain.
Thus, it’s not surprising that frequent cannabis use can result in panic attacks, depression, and memory issues.
This system operates with ‘main signalling molecules’ known as endocannabinoids, which attach to specific brain receptors.
Our bodies naturally produce their own endocannabinoids.
When cannabis is consumed, THC, one of its active components, attaches to the receptors and releases dopamine in the brain, which is known for creating a feel-good sensation, and when elevated, leads to euphoria.
The video notes that some studies indicate regular cannabis use may cause the body to reduce its natural production of endocannabinoids.
“This means that heavy and frequent use of cannabis can change our nervous system, and over time we feel more anxious or depressed,” the video explained.
Additionally, the increased dopamine levels have also been linked to incidents of psychosis.