Abstract
Background
Assessing the impact of cannabis on cognitive and physical performance is imperative, especially in safety-sensitive environments. This study investigated the degree and duration of performance impairment after cannabis consumption.
Methods
Fourteen cannabis users were subjected to physical and cognitive testing before and after smoking cannabis. Tests included assessment of intoxication, vital signs, psychomotor abilities, and muscle function. Blood, urine and saliva were analyzed for Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Carboxy-THC at baseline, and 1-, 6-, and 12-hours post-consumption.
Results
Blood THC levels peaked significantly at 1 hour and declined by 6 hours (p < 0.001), whereas Carboxy-THC levels showed a less pronounced but consistent variation over time (p = 0.005). Urine Carboxy-THC levels displayed a non-significant similar trend (p = 0.068). Acute cannabis use significantly (p = 0.01 – p < 0.001) raised systolic blood pressure and heart rate, increased force variability, reduced rate of force development, and compromised balance and muscle endurance up to 12 hours post-consumption.
Conclusions
Acute cannabis consumption results in physical impairments, impacting essential functions required for safety-sensitive tasks. The sustained presence of Carboxy-THC indicates prolonged pharmacological effects and necessitates cautious policy-making for workplaces.
Trial Registration
This study was not registered as a clinical trial as the ClinicalTrials.gov indicates that the study must answer yes to all four questions on their checklist. Although, our study was interventional, it was not conducted in the US nor involved a new FDA investigational new drug application, and the cannabis was not manufactured or exported from the US. The focus of the study was on the recreational use of a single cannabis cigarette on subsequent physiological or work performance and safety measures over 12 hours.