Subjective and Cognitive Effects of Cannabinoids in Marijuana Smokers

This chapter is aimed at summarizing the existing literature with respect to the subjective and objective cognitive profiles associated with marijuana use. Although subjective reports of marijuana use include feelings of relaxation and increased creativity, the altered state of consciousness and reduced inhibitory and executive cognitive functions may be enough to cause impairment in daily functioning. However, a chronically high level of consumption for an extended period of time is likely to result in increased risk of developing impairments such as affective dysregulation, inefficient cognitive control, underachievement, lower estimated intellectual capacity, and increased potential for additional drug use.