The implications of this on workplace and driving are as serious as previous studies have indicated. Further evidence that Cannabis and operating any machinery is a dangerous combination – in the workplace or on the roads.
Intoxication due to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol is characterized by disrupted prefrontal cortex activity
Conclusions: In summary, we used portable fNIRS to demonstrate that acute THC intoxication causes significant changes in brain activity within the prefrontal cortex that include (a) reduced correlations and anticorrelations at rest that correlated with severity of intoxication, indicating reduced top-down attention control and engagement of compensatory mechanisms, (b) more variability in dRSFC over time, that may contribute to a disruption of executive function by reducing the ability of cortical networks to efficiently adapt or reconfigure to salient stimuli, and (c) reduced spectral power, indicating THC disrupts the brain’s normal function in this area, as decreased power is generally associated with neural suppression or inhibition. These neurobiological correlates of THC intoxication severity were measurable using fNIRS and could potentially be incorporated into objective roadside impairment testing. Future study is warranted to investigate how these brain effects of acute THC intoxication relate to cognitive performance and operational impairment. (Source Neuropsychopharmacology (nature.com)
A new study led by investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital reveals that the main psychoactive component in cannabis or marijuana disrupts the normal connections and activity of the brain's prefrontal cortex, a region that is crucial for decision-making and self-control.
THC was associated with decreased functional connectivity within the prefrontal cortex relative to placebo, with the weakest connections among those who reported greater severity of intoxication.
Also, THC was associated with increased variability (or reduced stability) of functional connectivity of the prefrontal cortex, which could indicate a reduced ability of the brain to efficiently adapt or reconfigure to changing stimuli. Finally, THC was associated with lower overall activity within the prefrontal cortex.
"We were able to measure these effects of THC intoxication using portable imaging, which could potentially be incorporated in impairment testing scenarios, for example at the roadside," (Source: Medical Xpress Neuroscience 5th June 2024thMedical Xpress Neuroscience 5th June 2024)
Also see
- McLean Hospital Study Finds Marijuana Use Impacts Driving Even When Sober
- 'Medicinal’ Cannabis & Driving – Is it an Issue? (DRR)
- Victorian government to trial the impacts of medicinal cannabis use on driving – Hmmm, but who is overseeing the trial, and what outcomes will emerge?
