The effects of synthetic cannabinoids on executive function

Abstract

This study showed impairment of executive function in synthetic cannabinoid users compared with recreational users of cannabis and non-users. This may have major implications for our understanding of the long-term consequences of synthetic cannabinoid based drugs.

Theory of mind, aggression and impulsivity in patients with synthetic cannabinoid use disorders: a case-control study

“…2 A three-week SC use has been reported to have speech-pausing and avoidant eye contact effects. However, the cognitive functions are reported to be severely impaired in chronic use for eight weeks.…”

“…cination, panic attack, anxiety and depression. 2,28 It has also been reported that that there is an increase in the number of suicides following the use of SCs. 28 In our study, supporting the literature, the depression scores of patients with SCs use disorder were significantly higher than healthy control group.…”

“…Anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment have been more commonly observed in people using SCs compared to those who use natural cannabinoids or do not abuse any substances. 1,2 How the cognition-related mentalization is affected by these substances, which are reported to have negative effects on cognitive function, and whether they have a correlation may be an issue of concern. Theory of mind is defined as the ability to understand others' feelings and to make predictions about their thoughts, beliefs, wishes, and objectives.…”

The chemistry and pharmacology of synthetic cannabinoid SDB‐006 and its regioisomeric fluorinated and methoxylated analogs

“…[23][24][25][26][27][28] These modifications are not restricted to 3-naphthoylindoles, and several regioisomers and homologues of methoxybenzoylindole SC RCS-4 (5) have also been reported 29,30 despite no precedent in the scientific literature, with position of methoxy substituent affecting cannabinoid potency in vitro. 34,35 Although this compound was unprecedented in the scientific literature at the time of its discovery, other benzylic indole-3-carboxamides had been reported as potent, water-soluble CB 1 receptor agonists. 34,35 Although this compound was unprecedented in the scientific literature at the time of its discovery, other benzylic indole-3-carboxamides had been reported as potent, water-soluble CB 1 receptor agonists.…”

Synthetic cannabinoids: characteristics, use and clinical implications

“…Acute SC poisoning can lead to hospitalization. Recent studies have shown a decline in the executive function in SCs' users compared with recreational users of cannabis and non-users [28]; they also present more symptoms of confusion, disorientation and incoherent speech than consumers of natural cannabis [29].…”