Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is one of the most used recreational drugs in the world. Its effects on the brain cover a wide range of both short- and long-term changes. In this article we will focus on the short-term effects of marijuana on the brain, that is, those that manifest immediately after consuming the substance.
1. Alteration of sensory perception
One of the most common effects of marijuana on the brain in the short term is the alteration of sensory perception. Users may experience changes in the perception of time, intensity of colors, sounds and textures. This sensory distortion is a result of the action of cannabinoids in areas of the brain related to perception.
1.1 Effects on time perception
Marijuana users often report a sensation that time passes more slowly or faster than normal. This alteration in the perception of time can be disorienting and contribute to the feeling of disconnection from reality.
2. Changes in memory and attention
Another short-term effect of marijuana on the brain is interference with memory and attention. Cannabinoids affect the activity of key neurotransmitters in areas of the brain responsible for memory and concentration, which can lead to difficulties remembering recent information or maintaining attention on a task.
2.1 Difficulties concentrating
Marijuana users may experience difficulty concentrating on tasks that require sustained intellectual effort. This effect can negatively impact productivity and performance in activities that demand attention and focus.
3. Mood changes
Marijuana can also influence mood immediately. Some users experience euphoria, relaxation, or hilarity, while others may experience anxiety, paranoia, or sadness. These changes in mood are the result of the interaction of cannabinoids with the brain's endocannabinoid system.
3.1 Euphoria and relaxation
The feeling of euphoria and relaxation is one of the effects most sought after by marijuana consumers. These elevated moods may be pleasant in the short term, but they can also lead to reckless behavior or decreased risk perception.
4. Alterations in motor coordination
Short-term marijuana use can affect motor coordination and the ability to make precise movements. Cannabinoids interfere with communication between the brain and muscles, which can result in clumsy or uncoordinated movements.
4.1 Decreased reflexes
Marijuana can decrease reflexes and responsiveness to external stimuli, which can increase the risk of accidents, especially when driving vehicles or operating machinery.
5. Increased appetite
One of the known effects of marijuana is increased appetite, commonly known as "hunger attack" or "marijuana munchies". Cannabinoids stimulate the release of hormones that regulate appetite, which can lead to increased food consumption after consuming the substance.
5.1 Preference for foods rich in fats and sugars
Studies have shown that people who use marijuana tend to have a preference for foods high in fat and sugar, which can contribute to long-term weight gain if not properly controlled.
6 . Reducing anxiety
Although marijuana can cause anxiety in some users, in other cases it can have a calming effect and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Cannabinoids interact with brain receptors that regulate the stress response, which can result in a feeling of temporary calm.
6.1 Relief of emotional tension
For some people, marijuana acts as a coping mechanism to relieve emotional tension and psychological distress. However, it is important to keep in mind that excessive use of marijuana as a strategy to manage anxiety can have long-term negative consequences.
7. Changes in pain perception
Marijuana can also alter pain perception in the short term. Some studies have shown that cannabinoids have analgesic properties and can reduce the intensity of pain sensations in certain conditions. However, the way marijuana affects pain perception can vary depending on the individual and the type of pain.
7.1 Use of marijuana for medicinal purposes
Due to its analgesic properties, marijuana has been used in the treatment of certain chronic medical conditions that cause persistent pain, such as fibromyalgia or neuropathy. However, it is important to highlight that the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes must be supervised by health professionals and must be considered in the context of comprehensive treatment.
8. Interference with cognitive functions
Finally, marijuana can interfere with short-term cognitive functions, such as reasoning ability, decision making, and problem solving. Cannabinoids affect neuronal activity in areas of the brain related to cognition, which can result in altered cognitive functioning while under the influence of the drug.
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8.1 Effects on decision making h3>
Marijuana use can influence the ability to evaluate risks and rewards effectively, which can lead to impulsive or irrational decisions. These effects can be especially concerning in situations that require accurate judgment and informed decision making.
In conclusion, marijuana has a number of short-term effects on the brain that can vary by individual, the dose consumed and the context in which the drug is used. It is important to be aware of these effects in order to make informed decisions about the use of marijuana and its possible consequences on mental and physical health.