Drivers under the influence of THC would be more cautious, study shows
Survey reveals that edibles with derivatives from the plant alter human behavior without compromising safety
Published on 07/16/2024
Breathalyzer tests for marijuana detection are already authorized in Brazil | Image: Freepik
A recent study investigated the behavior of drivers after consuming foods containing THC, one of the main psychoactive compounds of cannabis. Published in the Journal of Cannabis Research, the research revealed that drivers under the influence of the compound showed a tendency to stay in the lower speed range while driving, compared to others who were sober.
The survey, pioneering in focusing on the effects of edibles rather than inhaled cannabis, is crucial due to the differences in absorption and effects between the two forms of consumption. While smoked cannabis acts quickly, edibles take longer to take effect and may have different actions due to differentiated metabolism.
Methodologically, the study monitored drivers in controlled conditions, observing their behavior at the wheel after consuming specific doses of THC. Surprisingly, no significant differences were found in driving ability measures between the groups under the influence of THC and the sober controls. Furthermore, there was no direct correlation between the levels of cannabis compound detected in the drivers' blood and any impairment in driving ability.
A notable aspect of the research was the low incidence of collisions among drivers who consumed cannabis edibles, so low that researchers could not adequately assess this factor in their final analysis. These results challenge common perceptions about the risks associated with THC consumption and driving, especially in a context of growing debate about cannabis legalization in various parts of the world.
It is important to note, however, that other studies suggest that continuous use of cannabis, especially in its smoked form, may impair cognition, thus influencing how people drive their vehicles. Therefore, the safety of plant consumption and its impacts on road safety and society as a whole require further studies.
Cannabis effects on the brain
Cannabinoid receptors are densely populated in the prefrontal and limbic areas of the brain, involved in reward and motivation, regulating the signaling of the brain chemicals dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and glutamate.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound of marijuana, cannabidiol (CBD), and other cannabinoids act on the "endocannabinoid system" present in the human body.
Cognitive effects
The use of cannabis can affect cognition, especially in people with plant-induced disorders - characterized by persistent drug use desire and disruption of daily activities, such as work or study. It is estimated that 10% of users meet the diagnostic criteria for the disorder.
In a study published on The Conversation academic news website, two groups were compared: drug users and disorder carriers (39 people) and a control group, who never or very rarely use cannabis (20 people).
Participants in the first group showed significantly worse performance in memory tests compared to individuals in the control group. Their "executive function," responsible for mental processes like flexible thinking, was negatively affected.
According to the research, the effect is linked to age - the younger, the more harmful - and sex. Men's memory was weaker in visually recognizing objects, while women had difficulty with attention and executive functions.