Work

Effects of Δ-THC on Working Memory: Implications for Schizophrenia?

Year: 2009

Type: article

Abstract: This article reviews the literature on the acute effects of Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive component of marijuana, on working memory, and the implications for schizophrenia. Working memory deficits are a hallmark feature of schizophrenia, and have been implicated as an etiologic mechanism contributing to the onset of the disorder. Regular marijuana smokers may also exhibit subtle working memory impairment relative to healthy controls, and an association between marijuana abuse and subsequent development of schizophrenia, though controversial, has been reported in the literature. The causal role that marijuana plays in working memory impairment related to schizophrenia, however, remains unclear. Thus, this article specifically considers the acute effects of marijuana on working memory performance. The ecologic relevance and clinical significance of these findings will be examined, and directions for future research will be recommended.

Source: PubMed

Authors: Nehal P Vadhan, Mark R Serper, Margaret Haney

Institutions: Hofstra University, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University

Language: English

Topic: Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute on Drug Abuse

Award: Neuropsychological Effects of Binge-Smoked Cocaine