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. 2021 Dec;8(4):124-133.
doi: 10.1007/s40473-021-00244-7. Epub 2021 Nov 15.

The Neurocognitive Effects of Cannabis Across the Lifespan

Jarrod M Ellingson  1   2 , Jesse D Hinckley  1 , J Megan Ross  1   2 , Joseph P Schacht  1 , L Cinnamon Bidwell  3   4 , Angela D Bryan  3   4 , Christian J Hopfer  1   2 , Paula Riggs  1 , Kent E Hutchison  1
Affiliations

The Neurocognitive Effects of Cannabis Across the Lifespan

Jarrod M Ellingson et al. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep. 2021 Dec.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review examines the neurocognitive effects of cannabis and relevant developmental factors across adolescence (age 13-21), adulthood (21-65), and older adulthood (65+).

Recent findings: Cannabis use is robustly associated with poorer neurocognitive functioning; however, studies that carefully control for confounds have often not found any evidence for impairment. Notably, the endocannabinoid system may underly how cannabis use affects neurocognitive functions, including heightened vulnerability during adolescence. In contrast, the endocannabinoid system may underlie protective neurocognitive effects of cannabis in older adults. Notably, older adults have reported sharp increases in recent cannabis use.

Summary: As legalization increases the accessibility, variety, and potency of cannabis, strong empirical evidence is needed to understand its neurocognitive effects across the lifespan. In particular, rigorous study designs are needed to investigate the neurocognitive effects of cannabis, including among vulnerable populations (adolescents, older adults) and mediating (e.g., endocannabinoid system) and moderating factors (e.g., alcohol use).

Keywords: Cannabinoids; Cannabis; Cognitive; Development; Lifespan; Neurocognitive.

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References

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