Age at first cannabis use moderates EEG markers of recovery from cannabis

Abstract

Background and Aims: Cannabis-induced cerebral perfusion deficits cause reduced electroencephalogram spectral power. In previous work, spectral power did not recover with cannabis abstinence. This study uses EEG to explore moderators of recovery during cannabis abstinence.Methods: A within-subject prospective community-based cannabis abstinence study was conducted with 10 cannabis-dependent participants. Resting EEG was measured before and after 14 days of abstinence at frontal and occipital electrodes. Demographic, drug use and withdrawal data were explored as moderators of EEG recovery.Results: In adjusted models, age at first cannabis use predicted EEG power change in the beta/gamma frequency band at frontal electrodes, as did participant age.Conclusion: Age at first cannabis use may moderate increases in EEG beta/gamma band power with cannabis abstinence.