New Study Says THC Reduces Meth-Induced Brain Damage

AlternativeFreePress.com

A new study “investigated the neuroprotective effect of Δ9-THC on METH-induced neurotoxicity by examining its ability to reduce astrocyte activation and nNOS overexpression in selected brain areas”. In layman’s terms they investigated if THC can reduce or prevent brain damage caused by meth. The answer: Yes, THC can reduce or prevent brain damage caused by meth.

Δ9-THC is an active compound in cannabis AKA marijuana.

The abstract explains that “Methamphetamine (METH) is a potent psychostimulant with neurotoxic properties. Heavy use increases the activation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), production of peroxynitrites, microglia stimulation, and induces hyperthermia and anorectic effects.”

The researchers “results indicate that Δ9-THC reduces METH-induced brain damage via inhibition of nNOS expression and astrocyte activation through CB1-dependent and independent mechanisms, respectively.”

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(Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24844285)