Acute and Chronic Effects of Cannabinoids on Learning and Memory Functions

Cannabinoids have been associated with a wide range of pharmacological effects, some of which have potential therapeutic benefit while others result in negative outcomes, such as dependence and impaired cognition. The most robust finding with respect to cognition is a deficit in working or short-term memory, which is a function requiring an intact hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, two brain regions richly expressing CB1 receptors. Starting with the discovery of an endogenous brain cannabinoid system with specific receptors, and their endogenous ligands and through the use of the tools such as specific CB1 receptor antagonist, and various transgenic models, considerable advances have been made in understanding the mechanisms underlying the effects of cannabinoids on memory. In studies that excluded the acute cannabis intoxication, chronic cannabis users’ poor performance on verbal learning and memory tasks reflect the potential chronic negatif effect of cannabinoids on learning and memory functions. Studies indicate the potential permanent side effects of cannabis use, especially during adolescence. The aim of this article is to review the current findings about the nature, size and reversibility of acute and chronic effects of cannabinoids on learning and memory functions and to discuss its relation with substance use characteristics