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Study shows altered brain chemistry in people who smoke marijuana

By Staff Writer

Many individuals know that smoking marijuana can lead to mood changes, diminished interest in certain subjects and a change in appetite. However, a new study by the National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institute on Drug Abuse shows that the drug can also change a user's brain chemistry.

Researchers used molecular imaging in order to determine that heavy marijuana smokers have a decreased number of cannabinoid CB1 receptors, which are involved in pain tolerance, appetite, pleasure and many other physiological and psychological body functions. Additionally, the study's results show that after people stop using the drug for a period of time, their receptors go back to normal. Researchers believe that this information will help find a treatment option for marijuana abuse.

In order to get these results, researchers analyzed 30 chronic marijuana smokers for four weeks. Their brains were studied using positron emission tomography. These images revealed that the receptor number was diminished by 20 percent in drug users when compared to healthy individuals.

Parents who are worried that their teens abuse illegal drugs like marijuana may want to consider enrolling them in schools for troubled youths.

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